Learning the Concept of One
Here's What To Do
1
Throughout the day, point out when there's one of something.
2
Play a quick body part game, talking about which body parts I have two of and which I only have one (i.e. nose vs. feet).
3
Play "find one." Place one object in a bowl, and then place many of the same object in a second bowl. Ask me to pick the bowl that has just one.
4
Play "pass me one." Ask me to pass you one item. If I give you more than one, explain that you only need one and give me back the rest.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Hold up one finger. Encourage me to hold up one finger too and to tap your finger.
E
Engage:
- Talk about one throughout the day: "Only one cracker left!", "We found one shoe!", "There's one doggie in the picture."
- "Which bowl has one block in it?"
E
Encourage:
- Gently correct me when needed: "Give me one block. (I give you two) Thank you, but I only need one." (hand extra block back to me)
- Celebrate when I find "one": "That's right, that's the bowl with one!"
R
Reflect:
- Do I seem to understand what "one" means? If yes, I can begin working on "two."
Not quite ready?
Continue pointing out when there is "one" object throughout the day. Over time, I'll begin to understand.
Ready for more?
If I can identify "one" easily, play the same games with "two."
As your child masters this skill...
They will understand that the word "one" means a quantity of one thing