In Grade 1 (Class 1), children move from counting to adding and subtracting. Some pick it up quickly; others need more hands-on practice. The secret is to make numbers real, using objects, games and short daily worksheets.

1. Start with real objects

Use toys, buttons, pencils or fruit. “You have 4 grapes and I give you 3 more. How many now?” Children understand far more when they can touch and move things.

2. Use a number line

Draw a number line from 0 to 20 on paper or with chalk on the floor. For 5 + 3, start at 5 and jump 3 steps forward. For 9 − 4, start at 9 and jump 4 steps back. Jumping on a chalk line outside makes it even more fun!

3. Learn number bonds to 10

Pairs that make 10 (1+9, 2+8, 3+7, 4+6, 5+5) are the building blocks of mental maths. Practise them with fingers, or with ten small objects split into two groups.

4. Everyday maths games

• Shopkeeper: label toys with prices (Rs 2, Rs 5) and practise buying with pretend money.
• Dice game: roll two dice and add the numbers. The bigger answer wins a point.
• Kitchen counting: “There were 8 rotis and we ate 3. How many are left?”

5. Practise word problems

Many children can do 6 + 2 but get stuck on “Ali has 6 marbles and finds 2 more”. Read short word problems aloud and ask your child to draw the story before solving it.

6. Little and often

Ten to fifteen minutes of maths worksheets a day, plus games, is better than long sessions. Always end on a question your child can answer, so they finish feeling successful.

Frequently asked questions

Should my Grade 1 child count on fingers?

Yes, fingers are a great tool when starting out. With practice and number bonds, children naturally begin to remember answers without counting.

How can I tell if my child needs extra help?

If your child still struggles to count objects up to 20 or recognise numbers by mid-year, talk to their teacher and add a few minutes of daily hands-on practice.

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