Clean Up Countdown
Here's What To Do
Pick something in your house that needs to be put away (like clothes into a drawer, crayons into a box, dishes into the dishwasher). Try to choose something with 10 objects or fewer.
Ask your child to count how many things you're starting with (5 plates, 10 socks, 8 crayons, etc.).
Put the items away one by one. Count backwards along with your child as you put each item away.
When the last item has been put away, say "Zero! There's nothing left to put away."
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Put away devices or other distractions and agree to work as a team.
Engage:
- "How many socks are we starting with?"
- "Can you count down with me? Start with 10."
Encourage:
- Counting backwards is a hard skill at this age. Don't worry if your child doesn't say the correct number along with you. With practice, they'll get it!
- "It's tricky to count backwards. Did you know your brain gets stronger when you learn something hard?"
Reflect:
- What are some other times we could practice counting backwards?
Not quite ready?
Put away and count down a smaller number of objects (2-5)
Ready for more?
Put away and count down a larger number of objects (11-20)Younger siblings could help put objects away while older siblings count them, or count down a smaller number of objects (2-5).Older siblings can help count down larger numbers (starting with 11-20 and counting backwards)
As your child masters this skill...
They will count backwards more confidently and accurately