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Khan Academy Kids Maths

Khan Academy Kids counting games maths mission

A practical mini-mission using counting games to practise early number through questions, examples and child-friendly challenges.

Quick answer

Khan Academy Kids counting games maths mission helps children learn to count, recognise numbers, and understand how numbers work through fun, interactive activities. You can practice counting objects, matching numbers to groups, and solving simple problems using the counting skills you already have.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to count objects up to 20 and match them to the correct number, using games and activities that feel like play. Success signs:
  • You can count a group of 10 objects and say the correct number.
  • You can match a number to a group of objects.
  • You can solve simple counting problems in a fun game.
  • You can use counting to help with everyday tasks like sharing snacks or organising toys.

Why this matters

Counting is the first step to understanding numbers. It helps you know how many things you have, how many friends are coming to your party, or how many cookies you need to bake. When you play Khan Academy Kids counting games, you’re not just having fun – you’re building the skills you’ll use in school and in life. Counting helps you solve problems, make decisions, and understand how the world works.

How it works

Counting means saying numbers in order, like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and so on. When you count objects, you touch or point to each one and say the next number. This helps you know how many there are in total. In Khan Academy Kids, you might see a group of 5 apples and need to pick the number 5 from a set of numbers. This is called matching numbers to groups.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at some examples of counting games you might play in Khan Academy Kids. Example 1: Counting in a Picture You see a picture with 7 birds sitting on a tree. You need to count them and pick the number 7. This helps you see how many birds there are. Example 2: Matching Numbers to Groups You are shown a group of 12 balloons. You must find the number 12 in a list of numbers. This helps you connect the number with the group of objects. Example 3: Counting with a Story You are told: “There are 8 cats in the garden. 3 cats go inside. How many cats are still outside?” You count 8, then 3, and find that 5 cats are left outside. These kinds of activities help you get better at counting and thinking about numbers.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Counting Kingdom You are a brave explorer in a magical kingdom where everything is made of numbers. You must help the kingdom’s animals count their treasures. 1st time: You find 3 apples in a basket. Count them and tell the kingdom’s number keeper. 2nd time: You see 5 butterflies in the garden. Count them carefully. 3rd time: You find 10 shiny stones. Count them and put them in your bag. 4th time: You meet a dragon who has 7 fireballs. Count them and help the dragon keep track. 5th time: You see 12 trees in a forest. Count them and draw a picture of your journey. When you finish, you will have practised counting up to 12!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the same object twice or skipping one.
    Why it happens: You might rush or not pay attention.
    Fix: Count slowly and touch each object once only.
  • Mistake: Saying the wrong number when you count.
    Why it happens: You might mix up the order of numbers.
    Fix: Practice counting from 1 to 10 every day.
  • Mistake: Not knowing how many objects there are.
    Why it happens: You might not have counted properly.
    Fix: Count again and check your work.

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers can help by:
  • Playing counting games with children at home, like counting steps, toys, or snacks.
  • Encouraging children to count aloud, even when they’re not playing games.
  • Using everyday moments to count, like “How many plates do we need for dinner?”
  • Letting children make mistakes and learn from them – it’s part of the fun!
  • Not worrying if they don’t get it right the first time – practice makes progress.

Practice questions

  1. How many fingers are on one hand?
  2. Count the number of spoons in this picture: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. What number is it?
  3. How many legs does a spider have?
  4. Count the number of stars in this group: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. What number is it?
  5. How many wheels are on a bicycle?
Answers:
  1. 5
  2. 5
  3. 8
  4. 6
  5. 2

FAQ

What is Khan Academy Kids?
Khan Academy Kids is a free app that helps children learn numbers, reading, and other skills through fun games and activities.

Why is counting important?
Counting helps you understand how many things you have and solve simple problems. It is the base for learning addition, subtraction, and more.

How can I help my child at home?
You can count everyday objects with your child, play counting games, and talk about numbers in daily life like when shopping or cooking.

Can I use Khan Academy Kids for free?
Yes, Khan Academy Kids is completely free to use. You can download it from the app store or visit their website.

What age is it best for?
Khan Academy Kids is designed for children ages 2 to 8, but it can be helpful for older children too.