Grade 1 students take a big leap forward when they learn to skip count by 2s, 5s, and 10s out to 120. Skip counting helps first graders see number patterns, build a foundation for multiplication, and count groups of objects faster than counting one at a time.
Many first graders stumble when sequences cross a decade boundary like 18 to 20 or 95 to 100, and others mix up the 2s and 5s patterns because both involve even-looking jumps.
These skip counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s worksheets give kids steady practice with missing-number sequences, true-or-false checks, matching activities, and short word problems. Before this topic, students learned to count to 100 by ones and recognize teen numbers. After mastering skip counting, first graders move on to place value with tens and ones, equal groups, and eventually second-grade addition strategies that lean heavily on counting by 5s and 10s. Daily practice builds fluency and confidence.
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Browse all 12 printable worksheets below — click any card to open the full page.
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
Skip Counting by 2s, 5s, 10s to 120
What's Included in This Download
What You'll Learn
These count to 20 worksheets help grade 1 students develop essential math skills through engaging activities.
Learning Objectives
- Sequential Counting: Count forward from 1 to 20 in correct order
- Number Sequence: Understand the order of numbers to 20
- Missing Numbers: Identify missing numbers in a sequence
- Number After/Before: Name the number that comes next or before
- Teen Numbers: Understand place value in teen numbers (10 + ones)
Skills Covered
How to Use These Worksheets
- Download & Print: Click the download button to get the PDF. Print on standard 8.5" x 11" paper.
- Start Simple: Begin with easier pages before moving to more challenging activities.
- Daily Practice: Dedicate 10-15 minutes each day for consistent learning.
- Use Manipulatives: Pair worksheets with physical objects like blocks or counters.
- Provide Encouragement: Celebrate progress and effort to build confidence.
- Check Progress: Use the included answer key to review work together.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Skipping the wrong amount when crossing a decade, like saying '2s: 18, 20, 21, 22' instead of continuing the +2 jump cleanly past 20.
- Mixing up 2s and 5s patterns and writing odd numbers in a 2s sequence (such as 4, 6, 7, 8) or even numbers ending in 2 in a 5s sequence.
- Forgetting that counting by 10s keeps the ones digit the same when starting at a multiple of 10, so kids may write '50, 60, 71, 80' by accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do first graders learn to skip count by 2s, 5s, and 10s?
Skip counting builds the foundation for multiplication, telling time, and counting money. It also helps first graders count larger groups quickly instead of counting one by one. Recognizing these patterns trains kids to see structure in numbers, which makes mental math much easier later on.
How far should a Grade 1 student be able to skip count?
Most first-grade standards expect students to skip count by 2s, 5s, and 10s within 120. Kids should be comfortable starting from numbers other than zero, such as counting by 2s from 56 or by 5s from 85. The worksheets here practice sequences across that full range.
What is the easiest skip counting pattern to start with?
Counting by 10s is usually the easiest because the ones digit stays the same when starting at a ten. Counting by 2s comes next since first graders already know even numbers from earlier work. Counting by 5s often takes a little more practice because the pattern alternates ending in 5 and 0.
How can I help my child if they get stuck crossing a decade?
Use a hundreds chart and let your child point to each number as they count. Highlight the row changes at 20, 30, 40, and so on so they can see the pattern visually. Practicing short jumps across tricky spots like 18-20 or 98-100 helps build smooth transitions.
What comes after skip counting in the first-grade math curriculum?
After skip counting, first graders work on place value with tens and ones, comparing two-digit numbers, and adding within 100. Skip counting also leads directly into telling time to the half hour and counting nickels and dimes, two skills that rely on counting by 5s and 10s.
Are these worksheets really free?
Yes! All our worksheets are 100% free to download and print. There's no subscription, no hidden fees, and no registration required.
Can I use these in my classroom?
Absolutely! Teachers are welcome to print and use these worksheets in their classrooms. Make as many copies as needed for your students.