Counting is more than reciting numbers
Connect each number word with one object, then talk about the whole group.
Touch one object at a time
Put three large toy blocks in a row. Touch each block once as you count. After saying three, sweep a hand around the group: “Three blocks altogether.” If a block is counted twice, simply arrange the row again and count together.
Change the arrangement
Move the same three blocks into a triangle. Ask what changed and count again. Next, add one block and show what the new total means. Keep the objects large enough for the child’s age and supervise handling.
Connect pictures and quantities
A number card and a short counting game can repeat the same idea. Stop before the activity becomes tiring. During the next everyday task, count spoons, steps or books so the number has a use beyond the screen.