Teaching toddlers numbers doesn’t have to be formal—it should be fun, interactive, and full of movement!

At this age, learning happens through repetition, exploration, and sensory play. The best number games are those that sneak in education while toddlers think they’re just having fun.

Here are toddler-friendly number games that help build counting, number recognition, and foundational math skills from the very beginning. 🧸🔢🎈

1. Number Treasure Hunt

Hide plastic numbers or foam digits around the room.

• Toddlers search and shout out the number when they find one
• Reinforces number recognition and physical activity

2. Clap and Count

Sit together and clap slowly while counting aloud.

• Great for rhythm and verbal counting
• Add variations: jump and count, stomp and count

3. Number Ball Toss

Write numbers on paper plates and spread them out.

• Toss a soft ball onto one and say the number out loud
• Adds coordination and number practice

4. Stack and Count Blocks

Use any type of building blocks.

• Stack and count as you build
• Encourage one-to-one correspondence

5. Bath Time Counting

Use bath toys for simple counting games.

• “How many ducks?” “Let’s pour three cups of water!”
• Engages multiple senses

6. Finger Numbers

Hold up fingers and say the number together.

• Reinforces visual and physical connections to numbers

7. Hop to the Number

Place number cards on the floor and call out a number.

• Toddlers hop to the correct card
• Builds gross motor skills and listening

8. Snack Counting

Use snack time as a learning moment:

• “Can you give me 3 grapes?” “Let’s count your crackers!”
• Involves real-life math and language

9. Puzzle Play with Numbers

Simple number puzzles are engaging and great for fine motor development.

• Choose chunky puzzles or foam number boards

10. Sing and Count Songs

Use songs like:

• “One, Two, Three, Four, Five…”
• “Five Little Monkeys”
• Helps with repetition and memory

Conclusion

Toddlers don’t need worksheets to learn math—they need movement, music, and joyful repetition.

With these number games, you’ll help your child develop confidence in counting and number recognition while nurturing their love of learning from the start.

Start today and turn those little giggles into growing brains!

Looking for more toddler-friendly ideas? Explore our Learning & Education section.

Sources:

• Zero to Three – Early Math Skills
• PBS Parents – Math for Toddlers
• NAEYC – Building Early Math Skills