Your Child Will Learn
Counting backwards from 10-0
Here’s What to Do
- Pick something in your house that needs to be put away (like clothes into a drawer, crayons into a box, dishes into the dishwasher). Try to choose something with 10 objects or fewer.
- Ask your child to count how many things you’re starting with (5 plates, 10 socks, 8 crayons, etc.).
- Put the items away one by one. Count backwards along with your child as you put each item away.
- When the last item has been put away, say “Zero! There’s nothing left to put away.”
Put PEER Into Action
PAUSE
- Put away devices or other distractions and agree to work as a team.
ENGAGE
- “How many socks are we starting with?”
- “Can you count down with me? Start with 10.”
ENCOURAGE
- Counting backwards is a hard skill at this age. Don’t worry if your child doesn’t say the correct number along with you. With practice, they’ll get it!
- “It’s tricky to count backwards. Did you know your brain gets stronger when you learn something hard?”
REFLECT
- What are some other times we could practice counting backwards?
Not Quite Ready
Put away and count down a smaller number of objects (2-5)
Ready for More
Put away and count down a larger number of objects (11-20)
Learn Together
Younger siblings could help put objects away while older siblings count them, or count down a smaller number of objects (2-5).
- Ask a younger sibling: “Can you put cups away one at a time, and your sister will count them?”
Older siblings can help count down larger numbers (starting with 11-20 and counting backwards)
- Ask an older sibling: “We have 20 crayons. Can you count down from 20 to 10 and your brother will count from 9 to 0?”
As Your Child Masters This Skill
They will count backwards more confidently and accurately
Time to Complete
5-10 minutes
Materials Needed
Household objects