Missing Numbers: Valentine Theme
Recommended Grade Level:
Type of Resource: PDF
Number of Pages: 5
Coordinating Activities
Valentine Missing Number Clip Cards
- 12 missing number clip cards (numbers within 100), 6 per page
- Each card shows a number sequence with one blank and 3 answer choices
- 1 page of directions
Print the cards in color. Laminate them and cut them apart so they hold up to lots of clipping.
Required Materials:
- Paper, Printer, Ink
- Laminator
- Paper Cutter
- Clothespins or paper clips
Standards for Counting and Number Sequence
These Valentine clip cards support early math standards connected to counting forward and identifying numerals.
Common Core State Standards: Mathematics
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.A.2: Count forward beginning from a given number within the known sequence. Kids count on to find the missing number.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.CC.A.1: Count to 100 by ones and by tens. The cards use numbers within 100.
Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines and TEKS for Mathematics
- TEKS K.2A: Count forward and backward to at least 20 with and without objects. Kids count forward from the first number on each card.
- TEKS K.5: Recite numbers up to at least 100 by ones and tens beginning with any given number. Kids count on from any number.
Virginia Mathematics Standards of Learning
- K.NS.1.e: Count forward orally by ones within 100, starting at any given number. Kids count on to find the missing number.
- K.NS.2.a: Read, write and identify the numerals 0 through 30. Kids identify the missing numeral.
Valentine Missing Number Clip Cards help preschool and kindergarten kids count forward and find the missing number in a sequence with a hands-on printable math activity.
What number comes next? Kids read each Valentine number line and clip the missing number.
Each clip card shows four numbers in a row with one blank. Kids count forward, find the missing number and clip a clothespin on the correct answer.
Clipping clothespins builds fine motor strength while kids practice counting on from any number.
Store the cards on a binder ring or in a small tub with clothespins for a quick math center.
How to Use Valentine Missing Number Clip Cards
- Read the numbers on the card.
- Count forward to find the missing number.
- Clip a clothespin on the correct answer.
- Check your answer and pick a new card.
Small Group: Give each child a card. Read the numbers aloud together and have kids clip their answer.
Independent Practice: Place the cards and clothespins in a math center. Kids work through the cards on their own.
Easy Ways to Differentiate These Clip 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:
- Count aloud together from the first number.
- Use a number line for support.
- Start with a few cards at a time.
- Use paper clips for kids who are still building hand strength.
For On-Level Practice:
- Complete all the cards.
- Say the full number sequence after clipping.
- Check answers with a partner.
- Write the missing number on a recording sheet.
For an Extra Challenge:
- Count backward from the last number on the card.
- Name the number that comes before the first number.
- Make your own missing number card.
- Count on by tens from the first number.
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.
- Clip clothespins on the answers for added fine motor practice.
- Repeat the same small set of numbers across several sessions.
- Use the words before, after and next as kids count.
Valentine Missing Number Clip Cards Are Perfect For:
- Preschool and pre-K
- Kindergarten
- ELL and multilingual learners
- Valentine’s Day themes
- Math centers
- Morning tubs
- Small-group instruction
- Intervention
- Special education
- Speech, OT and early intervention sessions
- Homeschool preschool and kindergarten
- Substitute plans

























