This counting resource is a fun way for kids to practice math skills. Preschoolers can learn number recognition, matching number values to corresponding quantities of dots, and counting in order from 1 to 4. 

 This post contains affiliate links. Privacy and Disclosure

Homemade resources are fun to add to your toolkit.  You can easily make this simple counting tool with some cardboard and everyday craft supplies. 

Activities that are hands-on and interactivity make learning new skills fun for preschoolers. A counting wheel is a way for kids to explore numbers and matching in a child-led activity.

You can make a counting wheel for the classroom, then help kids make their own counting wheels to use at home.

Dial up some math fun with your preschoolers!

Counting wheel craft

Materials list

• Self-adhesive numbers and dots

• Cardstock or cardboard

• Paper fasteners

You might notice the different version of the number 4 on the smaller wheel. 

Instructions for a counting wheel

1. Cut out a cardboard frame 8.5 inches long x 9 inches wide (22 x 23 cm).

2. Cut two circles (wheels) from cardboard - one 6 inch (15 cm) diameter and one 4 inch ( 10 cm) diameter.

3. Divide each circle into four equal sections by intersecting two lines as shown in the diagram.

4. Put dot stickers in each section of the large wheel.

5. Put a numeral in each section of the small wheel.

6. Cut two notches in the cardstock frame as shown in the diagram, a larger one at the top, a smaller one at the side.

• The opening of the larger cut-out V measures 4 inches (10 cm) across the top. The V-shape will match the size of one of the sections created in the larger circle.
  
  
• The opening on the right-hand side measures 3 inches (7.5 cm) across. This notch will match the size of one section in the smaller circle.

7. Line up a V-shaped section of the large wheel with the large opening in the base. The dot should appear in the center of the opening. Attach the wheel to the frame with a paper fastener.

The divided sections of the wheel should be revealed one at a time as the wheel is rotated.

Repeat the process with the small wheel.

Kids can make their own counting wheel.

To help kids make a counting wheel, prepare the frame and two circles ahead of time. You might also want to make the holes for the paper fasteners. Help kids assemble the counter if necessary.

Kids can color the frame or decorate the frame with stickers.

Start rolling out the fun with this easy to make math tool!

 Math Activities on Pinterest