Counting Number Mats 1-20: Unicorn Theme

Unicorn Number Counting Mats 1-20 help preschool and kindergarten kids count to 20, build numbers on ten-frames and form numbers 1-20 with play dough in a hands-on printable math activity.

Count over the rainbow! Each mat has a bright rainbow with a little star. Kids fill the ten-frames until the number matches. The filled mats are packed with tiny unicorns to count.

Every mat shows a number from 1 to 20, the number word and a rainbow on a cloud. Numbers 1-10 use a single ten-frame and numbers 11-20 use a double ten-frame.

Half of the mats have empty ten-frames to fill. The other half show them already filled with unicorns so kids can count the model and check their work. A double ten-frame is two ten-frames together. Kids fill the first one to make ten, then add the extra ones in the second. That way they can actually see that 14 is one ten and four more.

The large outlined numbers are made for play dough so kids build fine motor strength while they practice forming numbers 1-20. The traceable number at the bottom of each mat gives them a place to practice writing it too.

Print the color set for centers or the black and white set to save ink. Laminate the mats or slide them into dry-erase pockets and they’re ready for counters, play dough and dry-erase markers again and again.

How to Use Unicorn Number Counting Mats 1-20

1. Read the number word at the top of the mat and say the number together.
2. Build the large number with play dough or trace it with a dry-erase marker, then draw or place that many objects in the blank box.
3. Fill the ten-frame with manipulatives, counting each one as you go, then trace the number at the bottom of the mat.

Small Group: Give each child a mat. Everyone builds their number, fills the ten-frame and shares how many with the group. Pass the mats to the left and play again.

Independent Practice: Set the mats in a math center or binder with play dough and a cup of counters. Kids work through the numbers in order or pick any mat to build, count and trace.

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Easy Ways to Differentiate These Number Mats

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 mats as counting becomes steady.
• Use the filled ten-frame mats so kids can place objects right on top of the pictures.
• Touch and count each object aloud together.
• Trace the large number with a finger before writing.
• Stay with numbers 1-10 before moving to the teen numbers.

For On-Level Practice:

• Use the empty ten-frame mats for 1-10 in order.
• Have kids say the number word after counting.
• Shape the number with play dough, then fill the ten-frame to match.
• Use the filled mats to self-check.

For an Extra Challenge:

• Mix up the mats and put them in order from 1 to 20.
• Ask kids to tell how many tens and how many ones each number has.
• Say a number and have kids find the matching mat.
• Show a filled mat for a few seconds, cover it and have kids build the same amount from memory.

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.

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Unicorn Number Counting Mats 1-20 Are Perfect For:

• Kindergarten
• Preschool and pre-K
• ELL and multilingual learners
• Unicorn, rainbow and fairy tale themes
• Math centers
• Morning tubs
• Small-group instruction
• Intervention
• Special education
• Speech, OT and early intervention sessions
• Homeschool preschool and kindergarten
• Substitute plans

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