Kindergartners take a big step forward when they learn to count to 20 with confidence. This skill builds on counting to 10 and prepares children for addition, subtraction, and place value in first grade.
At this stage, children practice number recognition, writing numerals, and understanding the order of numbers, especially the tricky teen numbers from 11 to 19. Two common stumbling blocks are reversing digits when writing teens (writing 21 instead of 12) and skipping numbers like 14 or 15 during oral counting.
Our count to 20 worksheets give kindergartners gentle, repeated practice with tracing, missing numbers, before-and-after questions, and simple matching activities. Each page mixes a familiar warm-up with a small challenge so young learners stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Mastering this foundation makes later work with counting to 100, skip counting, and basic addition feel natural rather than frustrating, giving children the confidence they need as math grows more demanding throughout the early grades.
Worksheet Preview
Browse all 12 printable worksheets below — click any card to open the full page.
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
Count to 20
What's Included in This Download
What You'll Learn
These count to 20 worksheets help kindergarten 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 teen numbers, especially 13, 14, or 15, when counting out loud because the rhythm of teen names is irregular and harder to memorize than 1-10.
- Reversing digits when writing teen numbers, such as writing 21 instead of 12 or 41 instead of 14, because children write the sound they hear first.
- Confusing the meaning of 'before' and 'after,' so when asked for the number after 8 they say 7 instead of 9.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is counting to 20 important in kindergarten?
Counting to 20 is a core kindergarten standard because it lays the foundation for understanding place value, addition, and subtraction. Once children can count past 10 reliably, they begin to see how the teen numbers are built from a ten and some ones. This early pattern recognition makes first-grade math much easier.
How can I help my kindergartner remember the teen numbers?
Practice them out of order so your child does not rely only on the song-like sequence. Point out that thirteen, fourteen, and fifteen all end in -teen, and link each one to its written numeral. Daily counting of small objects like crackers or steps also reinforces both the names and the order.
What should my child be able to do before working on counting to 20?
Children are usually ready when they can count from 1 to 10 in order, recognize most numerals from 0 to 10, and write at least a few of them. They should also understand the idea of one more and one less. The easy worksheets in this set begin with tracing 1-6 to warm up these skills.
Why does my child reverse teen numbers when writing them?
Reversals are very common at age 5 and 6 because children write the digit they hear first. For 'fourteen,' they hear 'four' and write 4 before 1. Tracing practice and saying the numerals slowly while writing them helps children connect the spoken name to the correct written order.
What comes after counting to 20 in the math curriculum?
After counting to 20, kindergartners move on to counting to 50 and then 100, often by ones and by tens. They also begin simple addition and subtraction within 10, then within 20. A strong grasp of counting to 20 makes all of these next steps feel like a natural extension.
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.