One of the most popular Kneebouncer games is Numbrrrs; something about those little penguins diving off the iceberg makes preschoolers squeal! Number play is a fantastic way to introduce numerical concepts to your toddler or preschooler. So, we’ve taken this popular game and created ways to play number play at home!
Numbrrrs introduces numerals 1-20 to your little one. This fun and interactive number-play game is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers because all it takes is tapping any key on the keyboard.
The game introduces numerals, counts along with your child teaching one-to-one correspondence, and helps your toddler associate quantity with a written numeral.
DIY Game
Blogger Megan Sheakoski from Coffee Cups and Crayons created an iceberg math felt board activity inspired by Numbrrrs. So now your child can play with numbers and penguins online and off! Visit Megan’s site for a FREE printable with step-by-step directions on how to create your own board.
More Number Play
Other ways to engage in number play are counting toys, naming the number of things you see, pointing out written numerals when you see them on signs or buildings, and reading number concept books.
Blocks, cars, animals, markers, dolls, or any other toy your child has can become a lesson in numbers and quantity! Make piles of various amounts and ask your child which one has more or less. Their little brains will begin to work process estimation and less and more. Add a scale to the play to introduce the concepts of heavy and light.
Practice one-to-one correspondence by touching or picking up each item as you count it. This physical and visual connection combines the senses and makes learning more concrete. Don’t worry if your toddler or preschooler skips a number here and there; skipping numbers is typical when learning to count!
The average three-year-old can count from 1-5 or 1-10, and the typical four-year-old will begin counting from 1-20. Your child may recognize more numerals than they can count, or they may be able to count but struggle with identifying written numerals. Therefore, it’s a good idea to mix up the math exposure and have them interact with numbers in different ways!
If you’re looking for some great books that teach numerical concepts. Check out these classics:
- Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss
- Chika, Chika, 1 2 3 by Bill Martin
- The 1 2 3s of Art by Sabrina Hahn
Updated July 27, 2023, by L. Elizabeth Forry