Let’s Tap and Count
Your child will play a tapping game to count numbers between one and ten in the correct order.
Learning Area(s): Math
MATERIALS
- medium to large plastic or metal bowl or bucket
- wooden spoon or other large spoon
LET'S PLAY
First, introduce the game by saying “Let’s play a tapping game with numbers!” Show your child how to count from one to ten tapping the table once for each number you say (for example, “1” [tap], “2” [tap], “3” [tap]). Next, your child will tap the table once for each number you say as you count together. Your child can repeat after you or count with you.
Finally, your child will tap once for each number as she counts on her own, but this time using a wooden spoon to tap on a bowl or bucket like a drum. You can experiment with different rhythms of tapping, as long as your child is counting in the correct order and tapping only once for each number.
TIPS
Other variations of the game include:
- Clapping your hands as you say each number instead of tapping the table.
- Giving your child an object to tap on the table (or the floor if sitting on the floor), such as a wooden spoon, a chopstick, or a pencil.
- For a child who likes a lot of movement, have her jump or stomp as you say each number.
