This article focuses on the significance of using different objects when counting, and whether they

should be perceptually rich or not. When counting, using objects that stand out from their
surroundings can captivate children’s attention, leading to them further investigating the object.
This can increase their interest in counting and allow them to maintain concentration for longer.
However, studies have shown that these objects can also distract attention. For example, when
counting with animals, the children will often struggle to see these objects for anything other than
animals, and therefore be unable to see them as a tool for counting. They only see the object for
what it is. It became apparent that established knowledge played a huge part in the object’s
effectiveness. If the child has prior knowledge as to what the object is, then the overall effect is
negative. However, if a teacher can find a perceptually rich object that the children will have not
engaged with before, then the effects are positive, facilitating performances.