Reinforce Counting and Subitizing: the Foundation for Math

After my kids learned to count dots on a dice, I thought the next step was easy.
I gave them two dice and asked them to count the total dots.

But they got stuck.

I realized something important: Start with one dice first. Let them count.
But even before counting, there’s a key step—recognizing the number of dots without counting.

This skill is called subitizing.

We often think counting is the first and only step.
But actually, subitizing comes right after.

It helps kids see numbers quickly and clearly—before they move on to full addition.

Counting and subitizing are fundamental skills in early math development.

They help children recognize quantities, understand number relationships, and build the confidence needed to tackle more advanced mathematical concepts like addition and subtraction. Subitizing, more importantly, serves as a stepping stone to fluency in counting and mathematical reasoning.

What is Subitizing?

The ability to quickly recognize the number of objects in a group without counting them one by one.

Why Counting and Subitizing Matter

Counting and subitizing are not just about recognizing numbers. They’re about building a strong number sense, which is the ability to understand, relate, and connect numbers. These skills serve as the bridge to addition, subtraction, and beyond:

• Subitizing develops quick recognition of quantities, making addition and subtraction more intuitive.
• Counting establishes accuracy and understanding of one-to-one correspondence, critical for operations like adding and subtracting.
• Skip counting connects counting to multiplication and division, fostering an understanding of number patterns and grouping.

By transitioning from counting and subitizing to operations like addition and subtraction, children develop a deeper grasp of how numbers work, empowering them to approach more complex math with confidence.

To support kids in developing these essential skills, I’ve created four interactive apps that make learning engaging and fun. These tools not only reinforce counting and subitizing but also lay the groundwork for transitioning to more complex math operations.

Count Dice

This app provides a visual representation of numbers, helping children connect quantities with numerical values. By displaying dots on dice, children can practice recognizing numbers at a glance (subitizing) and counting to verify their answers. This simple yet effective tool strengthens their number sense and helps them see the relationship between visual patterns and numeric representations.

Count, Match & Connect

This app encourages children to associate numbers with quantities through engaging counting activities. For example, kids might count pumpkins or dots on dice, then match the total to the corresponding number. This hands-on practice supports one-to-one correspondence and improves number recognition, two critical skills for early math learners.

Count & Circle Biggest Group

This app is designed to develop both subitizing and critical thinking skills. Children count and compare groups of objects, circling the group with the largest quantity. These count-and-compare activities teach kids to count accurately while introducing concepts like comparison and decision-making. It’s a fun way to build essential math and reasoning skills that will support their understanding of more complex operations later.

Skip Count

Skip counting introduces kids to counting by intervals, such as by twos, fives, or tens. This app helps children identify number patterns, understand grouping, and develop a rhythm in counting. Skip counting is a foundational skill for multiplication, division, and fractions, and regular practice strengthens mental math abilities. By mastering skip counting, children gain a deeper understanding of number relationships and are better prepared for advanced math concepts.

Engage and Learn with These Tools

Each of the apps I’ve created offers a unique way to practice counting and subitizing while making math enjoyable and accessible. Whether your child is just starting to count or preparing to move into addition and subtraction, these tools provide the support they need for success.

Let’s make learning math an exciting journey, one number at a time!