Unit 1 Numbers and Counting

Dear Parent or Guardian

During this unit, your child will be learning about numbers and counting. In particular, they
will learn to:
• read and write numbers to 20
• begin to understand place value in 2-digit numbers.
These are important as they form the basis of counting and understanding place value in the
future. We will be carrying out lots of practical counting activities and playing games that
involve counting. Playing games is a great way to practise counting as the repetitive nature of
counting consolidates the order of number names.
We will also be using number lines and number squares so that the children begin to develop
a clear mental image of the number system.
You can help by playing games with your child at home and by counting objects as often as
you can. As you count a set of objects, touch each object so that your child comes to
understand that you only count each object once. Emphasising the last object that you count,
teaches them that the last number name you say gives the total number of the objects you
have counted.
You can also help your child in recognising numbers by pointing out numbers all around you.
House numbers and number plates on cars for example. There are also many videos and
games available on tablets or computers that you can use to support your child in learning to
count.

© Oxford University Press 2018