Counting Teeth
Level 1 requires guided modelling. 'Counting Teeth' reinforces healthy habits and safety awareness in structured format.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Numeracy
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Follow 2–3 step directions
- Identify key safety or hygiene concepts
- Participate in discussion
Instructions
Materials
- Large plastic mouth model with visible teeth
- Small hand mirrors for each child
- Dry erase markers and laminated cards with tooth outlines
- Counting manipulatives such as plastic cubes or large buttons
- Chart paper and markers
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence by touching one tooth for each number counted.
- Recognise and name numerals between 1 and 10.
- Practise oral hygiene awareness through tactile counting.
- Develop fine motor skills by placing manipulatives on specific spots.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather the children in a circle and introduce the plastic mouth model to demonstrate where our teeth are located.
2. Distribute individual hand mirrors and invite children to look at their own teeth while smiling.
3. Model the counting process by touching your own teeth slowly and counting aloud to five.
4. Encourage children to touch their own teeth as they count along with you.
5. Transition to the table and provide each child with a laminated card featuring a drawing of a mouth with empty circles for teeth.
6. Ask children to place one plastic cube onto each circle on their card to represent a tooth.
7. Instruct children to count their cubes aloud once they have filled the circles.
8. Write the corresponding numeral on the whiteboard and ask the children to trace the number in the air with their fingers.
9. Circulate the room to assist children who struggle with skipping numbers or missing circles.
10. Conclude by reviewing the importance of brushing all the teeth we just counted.
Educator Tip
If a child struggles with one-to-one correspondence, physically guide their hand to touch each object as they say the number. You can extend this activity for advanced learners by asking them to count how many teeth they have on the top row versus the bottom row.
Assessment
- Observe if the child touches one object per number spoken.
- Record the child's ability to identify the written numeral that matches their count.
- Note if the child can independently count a set of objects up to five.
Educator tip
Pre-cut difficult pieces; use visual schedule; model health vocabulary.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: engagement, comprehension, correct task attempt.