Into Math Kindergarten, Unit 1: Numbers 0 to 5
In this unit, your child gets to know the numbers 0 to 5 really well. They count small groups, write each numeral, and learn that the last number counted tells how many. They also practice saying the counting numbers in order. These small numbers build a strong base for the numbers 6 to 10 in the next unit.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 1?
- Saying the counting numbers in order, starting from 1, and beginning to count aloud past 10. Learn more about counting to 100 by ones: Counting to 100 by ones · Learn more about counting to 100 by tens
- Writing the numerals 0 to 5, and writing 0 when a group has nothing in it. Learn more: Writing numbers from 0 to 20
- Touching each object once while counting, and knowing the last number said tells how many. Learn more: How counting tells you how many
- Counting groups of up to 5 objects in a line or scattered, and counting out an amount 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
What comes next? 10, 20, 30, 40, __
- 60
- 50
- 41
How you can help
- Ask for exactly 4 crackers on your child's plate, then 2, then 5. Have them count out loud and stop at the right number each time.
- Write 0 to 5 on paper plates and have your child put that many toys on each one, leaving the 0 plate empty.
- Count toes, ears, and noses together at bath time or bedtime, touching each one as you say the number. Then ask how many in all.
Where kids can get stuck
- Counting the same toy twice when objects are scattered, so the total changes each time.
- Counting 4 blocks correctly, then starting over from 1 when asked how many there are.
- Forgetting that 0 means none, and leaving the space blank for an empty plate.
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, one number for each thing.
- number
- A word or symbol that tells how many, like 3 or three.
- numeral
- The written symbol for a number, like 7.
- zero
- The number 0, which means none at all.
- how many
- A question that asks us to count and tell the total.
- count out
- To count until you have the exact number someone asked for.
Want to help your child master numbers 0 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 Into Math Kindergarten Unit 1 cover?
Into Math Kindergarten Unit 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.