Counting each thing once: one number for each object
In Pre-K, children learn to count objects by touching or pointing to each one once while saying one number.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
Try these with your child
These are real questions from our Pre-K 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
You count the blocks: 1, 2, 3, 4. How many blocks are there?
- 5
- 4
- 3
Why this matters
Counting each object exactly once is how your child learns to trust the answer a count gives. In kindergarten they will count groups of up to 20, and soon after they will add by counting all the objects in two groups, or by counting on from one of them. If a finger skips an object or taps one twice, the answer comes out wrong even when the method is right, so this habit protects all of that work.
Where kids can get stuck
- Saying the numbers faster than they point, so the words run ahead and four blocks get counted as six.
- Counting the same object twice in a scattered pile, after losing track of which ones are done.
- Skipping an object at the end of a row or in a corner, and giving a total one too small.
How you can help
- Move each sock into the laundry basket as you count it together, so every number word goes with one sock moving from one place to another.
- Count the forks as your child sets the table, putting down one fork for each number said, and check together that no seat has two.
- Line up five stuffed animals at bedtime and have your child tap each head gently while counting, then count again starting from the other end.
Want a little more? Watch the kid-friendly video below together, or try Bobby's Math Club for free practice that adapts to your child.
Kid-friendly explanation
Questions parents ask
Why is my child learning to count by touching each object?
Touching or moving each object makes sure every item gets exactly one number. Young children often say the numbers in a rush while their fingers wander, which gives the wrong total. Pointing slows the counting down and links each word to one thing. Over time children can count by looking alone, but touching is the reliable first step.
My child can count to 20 but gets the wrong answer when counting toys. Why?
Saying numbers in order and matching each number to one toy are separate skills. Your child may know the words well but not yet keep their pointing in step with their voice. Slow down together, and try lining the toys up or moving each one into a box as it is counted. That makes the match easier to see and to check.
How will I know when my child has this skill?
You will see your child count a small group, say six or seven objects, touching each once and getting the same total when they count again. They may also notice and fix their own mistakes, such as saying "I counted that one already." Counting scattered objects is harder than counting a row, so expect that to come a little later.
Make learning math fun
Bobby's Math Club turns Pre-K math practice into something fun to do together.
- Free, unlimited practice for every child in your family
- 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 the Pre-K math learning standard PK.CC.3a: “When counting objects, say the number names in the standard order, pairing each object with one and only one number name and each number name with one and only one object.” Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow. (Pre-K standard PK.CC.3a)