Writing numbers

Give your child opportunities to write numbers. At kindergarten we have charts with the numbers to 20. The tamariki (children) enjoy writing these numbers. It is great practice for them in forming the numbers. Don't be alarmed if their formation is not accurate. Remember small children are still developing their coordination skills and fine motor skills require longer to develop with each child developing these at different rates.

Ideas:

• Old calendars are great for children to use.
  
• Letter box numbers are fun to trace around
• Try tracing number stencils.
• Make numbers in the sand at the beach (start with child's age, house number etc)
• Put large numbers on your child's bedroom wall (or get number frieze)
• Buy number magnets for your child to play with (name them for child then let them)
• Buy or borrow from library, number puzzles

Remember to count with your child regularly so they become familiar with the number names and the order of the numbers. Start counting forwards firstly 1-5, then when that's learned try counting 1-10, then 1-20. Once the forward counting is mastered count backwards following similar pattern with 5-1, 10-1, 20-1.

Don't forget to count in your native tongue too if English is not your first language.