Complete Number Trails by Counting On

This missing numbers worksheet contains four number trails with two empty spaces each. Read the given values and continue forward by one to find the missing numbers. The extra activity asks the child to make a number trail beginning at 5.

The first trail runs from 6 to 10. Its missing numbers are 8, and 9. Use the visible values on either side of a gap and count forward once for each space. Read the completed trail aloud, checking that each new number is exactly one more than the number before it.

For the follow-up, start at 5 and continue by one through the number trail. An adult can read the instructions, point to the starting value, and ask the child to say the next number before writing it. A spoken count or a separate number line can support a gap that feels difficult. Recheck the full row after filling each blank so the answer remains connected to its surrounding numbers.

Continue with related activities in the Early Math Essentials. The number reference library offers another look at the numerals and quantities used in early math. Choose a few questions that the child can discuss comfortably, then return to the page during another short practice session. A useful next step is asking the child to explain one answer using a different drawing or a small group of counters.