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Printable ten frames

Use blank and filled ten frames for early number activities.

Quick answer

Printable ten frames are grids of 10 squares (usually 2 rows of 5) that help children visualise numbers up to 10, making it easier to understand addition, subtraction, and number bonds.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use printable ten frames to show numbers, count objects, and solve simple addition and subtraction problems with numbers up to 10. Success signs:
  • You can fill in a ten frame with the correct number of counters
  • You can use two ten frames to add numbers together
  • You can find the missing number when one ten frame is partly filled
  • You can explain how 5 + 3 = 8 using a ten frame

Why this matters

Ten frames help children understand numbers in a visual way. They're like a helpful friend who shows you how many you have, how many more you need, and how numbers fit together. This is useful for:
  • Learning to count
  • Understanding how numbers work together (like 3 + 4 = 7)
  • Getting ready for bigger maths like multiplication and division
  • Making number problems easier to solve
You can use ten frames when you're playing games, sharing snacks, or even counting your toys.

How it works

A ten frame is a grid with 10 squares, usually arranged in 2 rows of 5. You can fill in the squares with counters, stickers, or draw dots. Here's how to use them:
  1. Take a ten frame and decide how many objects you want to show
  2. Put that many counters or dots in the squares
  3. Count the filled squares to see how many you have
  4. Use two ten frames to add or subtract numbers

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you're a detective solving a puzzle with ten frames.
  • Example 1: You have 7 apples. Draw 7 dots on a ten frame. You can see that 3 squares are empty. So 7 + 3 = 10.
  • Example 2: You have 5 red marbles and 4 blue marbles. Use one ten frame for red marbles and one for blue marbles. Count all the dots to find you have 9 marbles total.
  • Example 3: You have 10 cookies and eat 3. Use a ten frame to show 10 dots, then cross out 3. You can see 7 cookies are left.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Number Detective You are a detective who needs to solve mysteries using ten frames. Here's your mission:
  1. Find 5 objects around your house (like pencils, toy cars, or buttons)
  2. Use a ten frame to show how many you found
  3. Now find 3 more objects and add them to your ten frame
  4. How many objects do you have now?
  5. Draw a picture of your ten frame and write the number sentence (like 5 + 3 = 8)

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the empty squares instead of filled ones.
    Why it happens: It's easy to get confused when looking at a ten frame.
    Fix: Always count the filled squares and say "filled" or "used" to help remember.
  • Mistake: Thinking 10 + 5 = 10.
    Why it happens: Children sometimes forget that 5 more makes 15.
    Fix: Use two ten frames to show 10 + 5 = 15. Put 10 counters on the first frame and 5 on the second.
  • Mistake: Not using all 10 squares.
    Why it happens: Children might not understand that 10 is a full set.
    Fix: Practice with 10 counters and make sure they fill the whole frame.

Parent and carer guide

To help your child with printable ten frames:
  1. Start with simple numbers like 3 or 5
  2. Ask questions like "How many are filled?" or "How many more do you need?"
  3. Use everyday objects like buttons, coins, or pasta pieces
  4. Make it fun by turning it into a game or story
  5. Don't worry if your child makes mistakes – they're part of learning
Remember: ten frames are tools for understanding, not tests. If your child gets frustrated, take a break and try again later.

Practice questions

  1. Fill in a ten frame with 6 counters. How many squares are empty?
  2. You have 4 counters on one ten frame and 5 on another. What is the total?
  3. Use a ten frame to show 7. How many more do you need to make 10?
  4. You start with 9 counters. You eat 2. How many are left?
  5. Fill in a ten frame with 10 counters. What number is this?
Answers:
  1. 4 squares are empty
  2. 9 counters total
  3. 3 more to make 10
  4. 7 counters left
  5. 10

FAQ

What is a ten frame?

A ten frame is a grid with 10 squares (2 rows of 5) that helps children visualise numbers up to 10.

How do I use printable ten frames?

Use counters, stickers, or draw dots to show numbers. You can add or subtract by filling or emptying squares.

Are ten frames only for small numbers?

No, ten frames help with numbers up to 10, but they also help with bigger numbers and addition problems.

Can I make my own ten frames?

Yes! You can draw them on paper, use a grid from a worksheet, or print them from online resources.

What age is best for ten frames?

They're great for children aged 3-8, especially for learning counting, addition, and number bonds.