enVision Mathematics Kindergarten, Topic 1: Numbers 0 to 5
In this unit, your child starts the year with small numbers, from 0 to 5. Kindergartners count small groups, touch each object once, learn that zero means none at all, and begin writing the numerals 0 to 5. Getting these small amounts solid makes the next unit easier, when your child starts deciding which of two small groups has more, fewer, or the same.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Topic 1?
- Writing the numerals 0 to 5, the written numbers, and using 0 when a group has nothing in it. Learn more: Writing numbers from 0 to 20
- Touching each object once while counting to 5, and knowing the last number said tells how many are in the group. Learn more: How counting tells you how many
- Counting groups of up to 5 things in a line or scattered about, and counting out a number like 4 when asked. Learn more: Counting groups of up to 20 things
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
How many apples do you see?
- 9
- 7
- 8
How you can help
- Ask your child to bring you a small number of things, such as 3 socks or 5 spoons, and count them together as they land in your hand.
- Show a number from 0 to 5 on your fingers, and let your child say the number and then write it on a scrap of paper.
- Look at an empty plate after a snack and talk about how 0 is the number for nothing left, then write it together.
Where kids can get stuck
- Counting quickly while pointing, so their words and touches fall out of step and a group of 4 becomes 5.
- Writing 2 or 5 backward, which is common at this age and does not mean they misunderstand the amount.
- Saying an empty basket has no number, rather than knowing 0 is the number for none.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- count
- To say numbers in order, giving one number to each thing.
- numeral
- The written symbol for a number, like 7.
- zero
- The number for none at all, written 0.
- how many
- The question a count answers; the last number you say tells it.
- one-to-one counting
- Giving each object exactly one number word as you count.
- count out
- To count just the number of things someone asks for, then stop.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with numbers to 5?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
Join the club
Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does enVision Mathematics Kindergarten Topic 1 cover?
enVision Mathematics Kindergarten Topic 1 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.