Counting Cards 1-20: Unicorn Theme
Recommended Grade Level:
Type of Resource: PDF
Number of Pages: 43
Coordinating Activities
Unicorn Counting Cards 1-20
- 20 color counting cards for numbers 1-20
- 20 color counting cards with dots to show where to place each object
- 20 black and white counting cards
- 20 black and white counting cards with dots
- Each card includes:
- A unicorn with a big rainbow to fill
- The number and the number word (one through twenty)
- A directions page with prep and how-to-use tips
Cards print two per page. Cut them apart and choose the color set for a bright math center or the black and white set to save ink.
Required Materials:
- Paper, Printer, Ink
- Paper Cutter
- Laminator (recommended so the cards last)
- Small objects such as pom-poms, mini erasers or glass gems
Standards for Counting and Cardinality
These unicorn cards support early math standards connected to counting objects, one-to-one correspondence, matching numbers to amounts and recognizing numerals to 20.
Common Core State Standards: Mathematics
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.B.4: Understand the relationship between numbers and quantities. Every card connects a numeral and number word with a set of objects.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.B.5: Count to answer “how many?” questions about as many as 20 things. Kids count out objects to match each card.
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for Mathematics
- TEKS K.2A: Count forward and backward to at least 20 with and without objects. Kids count up as they work through the cards in order.
- TEKS K.2B: Read, write and represent whole numbers from 0 to at least 20 with and without objects or pictures. Every card shows the numeral and number word. Kids build the matching amount.
- TEKS K.2C: Count a set of objects up to at least 20 and show that the last number said tells how many are in the set. Kids count every object on the rainbow to find how many.
Virginia Mathematics Standards of Learning
- K.NS.1.a: Use one-to-one correspondence to find how many are in a set. Kids place one object on each dot as they count.
- K.NS.2.b: Build a set of objects to match a given numeral. Kids fill the rainbow with that many objects.
Unicorn Counting Cards 1-20 help preschool and kindergarten kids count objects, match numbers to amounts and recognize numbers 1-20 with a hands-on printable math activity.
Count over the rainbow! Each card has a smiling unicorn with a big rainbow stretched out in front. Kids line up pom-poms or gems along the rainbow until it matches the number.
Every card shows a number from 1 to 20 and the number word. Half of the cards have dots on the rainbow that show kids right where to place each object. The other half are plain. Kids count and place the objects on their own.
Counting real objects onto a picture builds one-to-one correspondence and helps kids connect each numeral to the amount it stands for.
Want more unicorn counting? The unicorn ten-frame cards show the same numbers on ten-frames and make a perfect match game with these cards.
Print the color set for centers or the black and white set to save ink. Laminate the cards and they’re ready for counting again and again.
How to Use Unicorn Counting Cards 1-20
- Choose a card and read the number and number word together.
- Count out that many pom-poms, mini erasers or gems.
- Place one object at a time on the rainbow, counting aloud, then check that the last number said matches the card.
Small Group: Give each child a card and a cup of pom-poms. Everyone fills their rainbow and shares how many with the group. Pass the cards to the left and play again.
Independent Practice: Set the cards in a math center with a bowl of counters. Kids work through the numbers in order or pick any card to read, count and fill.
Easy Ways to Differentiate These Counting Cards
Every group of kids has a mix of counting, number recognition and fine motor skills. These simple changes keep the activity familiar while meeting each child where they are.
For Children Who Need More Support:
- Start with numbers 1-5 and add more cards as counting becomes steady.
- Use the cards with dots so kids can place one object on each dot.
- Touch and count each object together.
- Use larger objects for kids who are still building hand strength.
For On-Level Practice:
- Use the plain cards for 1-10 in order.
- Have kids say the number word after counting.
- Fill the rainbow, then count again to check.
- Have a partner count the objects to check the work.
For an Extra Challenge:
- Mix up the cards and put them in order from 1 to 20.
- Use only the plain cards for numbers 11-20.
- Say a number and have kids find the matching card.
- Pull two cards and have kids tell which number is bigger.
For Speech, OT, ELL or Special Education Support:
- Model the number word and give plenty of wait time.
- Accept pointing, gestures, AAC or any communication method the child already uses.
- Use tongs or tweezers to place counters for added fine motor practice.
- Repeat the same small set of numbers across several sessions.
- Name the rainbow colors together for extra language practice.
Unicorn Counting Cards 1-20 Are Perfect For:
- Preschool and pre-K
- Kindergarten
- ELL and multilingual learners
- Unicorn, rainbow and fairy tale themes
- Math centers
- Number of the day
- Morning tubs
- Small-group instruction
- Intervention
- Special education
- Speech, OT and early intervention sessions
- Homeschool preschool and kindergarten
- Substitute plans
