Ages 5–6 · England · Parent guide
Year 1 maths: number bonds, counting and everyday games
By Mathsonaut Team · Reviewed
In Year 1, children connect number words, written numerals and real quantities. Moving six objects matters as much as writing 6: it lets your child check what a number means. Begin with amounts they can handle comfortably, then build up. These are ideas to explore together, rather than a checklist your child must complete today.
What children explore in Year 1
- Count forwards and backwards within 100, starting from different numbers.
- Read and write numbers to 20; find one more and one less.
- Use number bonds and related subtraction facts within 20.
- Explore equal groups, halves and quarters with objects; name familiar shapes and compare measurements.
Selected topics from the mathematics programme of study for England. This is an overview, not the full curriculum or a test of readiness. Your school may teach topics in a different order.
Make ten with a ten-frame
There are 6 orange counters. How many more make 10?
- Fill a ten-frame with six counters. The frame has two rows of five spaces.
- Count the four spaces still empty. Fill them with a different colour.
- Read the whole picture: 6 and 4 make 10. Turn it around to see that 10 − 6 = 4.
A common mix-up: counting an object twice
If the spoken count and the pointing get out of step, move each object into a new pile as you say its number. Then ask how many there are altogether. Rearrange the same objects and check that moving them has not changed the total.
Away from the screen
The hidden-counter game
Start with ten large counters or blocks where you can both see them. Ask your child to close their eyes while you hide some under a cup. They work out the hidden amount from the counters left outside, then lift the cup to check. Swap roles so your child sets a puzzle for you.
Ask together: “I can see seven. How many must be hiding to keep our total at ten?”
Choose the next small step
If ten feels too much, play with five first. When your child can explain several pairs, try writing the matching addition and subtraction sentences. Ask their teacher which number range the class is practising.