Comparing numbers from 1 to 10
In kindergarten, children learn to compare two written numbers between 1 and 10 and to say which is greater or less, without needing objects to count.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
Try these with your child
These are real questions from our kindergarten 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
Is 1 less than 10?
- Yes
- No
- Equal
Why this matters
Knowing that 8 is more than 5 without lining up objects shows your child really understands what numbers mean. This is the base for 1st grade, where they compare numbers like 46 and 64 using the signs for greater than, less than, and equal to, and for 2nd grade's numbers up to 1,000. It also matters in everyday choices, such as noticing that a price of 9 is higher than 6.
Where kids can get stuck
- Saying 6 is greater than 9 because the 6 is written bigger, or because the two numerals look alike.
- Comparing 3 and 8 easily, but hesitating over numbers close together, such as 7 and 8.
- Pointing to the bigger number when asked which is less, because "greater" is the question they are used to.
How you can help
- Play a card game with cards numbered 1 to 10, where each of you turns over a card and the higher number wins both cards.
- Look at two house numbers on a walk, if they are 10 or less, and ask which one is greater and how your child knows.
- Roll two dice and ask your child which number is less, then ask them to show both amounts with fingers to check their answer.
If it’s helpful, you can watch the kid-friendly video below, or sign up for free, adaptive practice in Bobby's Math Club.
Kid-friendly explanation
Questions parents ask
Why does my child need to compare numbers without objects?
Comparing written numbers shows that your child understands what each numeral stands for. They no longer need to see the objects to know that 8 is more than 5. That understanding is the basis for comparing larger numbers, solving problems, and, later, estimating. It also shows your child can use the counting order to reason about amounts.
My child mixes up which number is greater. What can I do?
Help your child connect each number to an amount. Ask them to show both numbers on their fingers or with small objects and compare. You can also count together and notice which number you reach first. A number reached later in the count is always greater. With practice, they will start to know without checking.
Will my kindergartner use the greater than and less than symbols?
Usually not yet. Kindergartners say which number is greater or less in words. The symbols for greater than and less than are introduced in 1st grade, when children compare two-digit numbers. What matters now is that your child can tell which number is bigger and explain how they know.
Make learning math fun
Bobby's Math Club turns kindergarten math practice into something fun to do together.
- Unlimited practice, completely free
- A few minutes a day, at just the right level
- Hints when they are stuck, and a celebration when it clicks
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.
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Join the clubNote for teachers: This skill is covered by Common Core math standard K.CC.C.7: “Compare two numbers between 1 and 10 presented as written numerals.” Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow. (Common Core K.CC.7)