This counting resource is a fun way to practice math skills including number recognition, matching number values to corresponding quantities of dots, and counting in order from 1 to 4.
You can make a counting wheel for the classroom and kids can make one to use at home.
- Stick-on numbers and circles
- Paper fasteners
I couldn't find stick-on numbers small enough for the small wheel so I cut them out myself.
I used a different version of the number 4. You can make it the same as the one on the front of the base if you prefer.
1. Cut out a cardstock base 8 ½” long x 9” wide.
2. Cut two circles from cardstock - one 6” diameter and one 4” diameter. These are the "wheels".
3. Divide each "wheel" into four equal sections by intersecting two lines as shown in the diagram. Put ‘circle’ stickers in each section of the large wheel, increasing from 1 to 4. Put a number sticker in each section of the small wheel.
4. Cut two notches in the cardstock frame as shown in the diagram, a larger one at the top, a smaller one at the side.
The opening of the cut-out V along the top measures 4” across; the opening on the right-hand side measures 3”across. The V-shape of the larger notch will match the size of one of the sections created in the larger circle. The smaller notch will match the size of one section in the smaller circle.
5. Line up a section of the large wheel with the large opening in the base. Attach the wheel to the cardstock frame with a paper fastener. The divided sections of the wheel should be revealed one at a time as the wheel is rotated. Repeat the process with the small wheel.
To help kids make a counting wheel, prepare the cardstock base and two circles ahead of time. You might also want to make the holes for the paper fasteners. Then the children can color or decorate the frame, and, with your help when necessary, add the stickers and assemble the counter.
You can also make the holes for the paper fasteners. The children can color or decorate the frame, and, with your help when necessary, add the stickers and assemble the counter.
The children can color or decorate the frame, and, with your help when necessary, add the stickers and assemble the counter.