Counting Forward and Backward

Purpose

To practice counting forwards and backwards fluently

Materials

None

Overview

Have the class count forwards from 0 to 10 and then backwards from 10 to 0. Have them count aloud in unison, if possible. Repeat several times until everyone is speaking as one voice. When children are fluent in counting forwards and backwards to and from 10, move to counting to and from 20.

About the sequence

Part 1, counting forward from 0 to 10, is a warm-up. Part 2 practices forwards and backward counting to and from 10. The extension moves to counting forward and backward to and from 20.

Part 1

Let’s count forward, starting at 0 and ending at 10.

If children need more practice or are enjoying their mastery, repeat. If children are ready to move on, go to Part 2.

Part 2

Now let’s count forwards and backward, starting at 0 and ending at 10 and then returning to 0.

0, 1, 2…9, 10, 9…2, 1, 0

If children need more practice, repeat. Or, when children seem excited for a new challenge, move to the extension.

Extension

Now let’s count forward, starting at 0 and ending at 20, and then count backwards from 20 to 0.

0, 1, 2…19, 20, 19…2, 1, 0