Craft Stick Counting Activity for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Make counting more hands-on with this simple craft stick counting activity. Add raised glue dots to numbered craft sticks, then invite toddlers and preschoolers to touch each dot as they count. The tactile dots give children something to feel as they practice counting and recognizing numbers.

These counting sticks are easy to make with a few supplies. Use them for counting practice, matching numerals, putting numbers in order, or introducing simple addition.

Materials for Tactile Counting Sticks

• Jumbo craft sticks or wide wooden craft sticks
• Marker (Paint markers work best, but sharpies are fine too!)
• Glitter glue or another dimensional glue
• Tray or paper to protect your work surface while the glue dries

How to Make Craft Stick Counting Sticks

1. Write one numeral on each craft stick. Start with numbers 1–5 for younger children, or make a set from 1–10 for preschoolers who are ready for more.
2. Add raised glue dots to each stick to match the numeral. For example, put three dots on the stick labeled 3.
3. Set the sticks on a flat surface and let the glue dry completely before using them.

Keep the dots raised enough for children to feel, but make sure they are firmly attached. Supervise young children during the activity and put the sticks away if they start mouthing them.

You can make them vertical or horizontal. We made both, but my daycare children preferred the horizontal ones.

How to Use the Counting Sticks

Touch and count

Give your child one stick at a time. Have them touch each raised dot and count aloud. The dots give children a tactile reminder to slow down and count each object once.

If a child is still learning the number sequence, begin with just a few sticks and count the dots together. You can also model pointing to each dot as you say each number.

Put the numbers in order

Set out a small group of sticks and ask your child to arrange them in number order. Start with 1–5, then add more sticks as they become familiar with the sequence.

If your child needs help, say the numbers together while pointing to each numeral. You can also leave one spot empty and ask which number belongs there.

Count objects

Pick a stick and gather that many small objects, such as blocks, pom poms, counting bears, or circle counters. For example, choose the stick with four dots and count out four blocks.

This connects the numeral and the tactile dots to a group of real objects. Choose materials that are appropriate for the child’s age and supervise small pieces closely.

Match sticks to number cards

Place number cards on the table and invite your child to match each counting stick to the card with the same numeral. You can use homemade cards or pair the sticks with number cards from another counting activity.

For an extra challenge, mix up the cards and sticks, so children have to look at the numeral and count the dots before making a match.

Try simple addition

Older preschoolers can draw two sticks and add the numbers together. Have them count the dots on the first stick, then the second, and combine the totals.

For example, if they draw a 2 and a 3, they can touch and count all five dots. Keep the activity playful; children can use blocks or fingers to help find the answer.

Make the Activity Easier or Harder

For toddlers and younger preschoolers, begin with three or four sticks and focus on touching and counting the dots. You can cover the numeral at first and ask, “How many dots do you feel?” Then reveal the number and say it together.

For children who are ready for a challenge, make sticks through 10, ask them to find a number without counting every dot, or use two sticks for addition. You can also make a second set and use it for a simple number-matching game.

A Simple Hands-On Preschool Math Activity

These tactile counting sticks are an easy way to add a sensory element to number practice. Children can see the numeral, feel the raised dots, and count each one as they work. Keep a small set in a math center or bring them out for a quick one-on-one activity.

If you enjoy hands-on number practice, try pairing the sticks with a number-card activity or explore more of our counting activities for toddlers and preschoolers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is this craft stick counting activity for?

Toddlers and preschoolers can explore the sticks with adult support. Start with a small number range and adjust the activity to your child’s counting skills.

What can I use instead of glitter glue?

Use another dimensional glue that dries into firm, raised dots. Test it on one stick first and let it dry fully before making the rest.

How many counting sticks should I make?

Start with five sticks numbered 1–5. You can add sticks through 10 as children gain confidence with counting and number recognition.

More Counting Activities

• Preschool counting practice with nature
• Ping-pong ball counting and number matching
• Counting with pom-poms and tubes