Next Whole Number to 20 Worksheet

This next number worksheet turns a number idea into a short task with a clear response. The 4 prompts start with 1, 9, 13, 16. Read each given number and circle the whole number that comes immediately after it. Read the directions together and point out where an answer belongs before starting. The task asks for one more, rather than a longer skip-counting sequence.

The first given number is 1; one more is 2. Say the given number, then take one step forward in the counting sequence. Compare that answer with all of the choices before circling it. If the number is unfamiliar, use a short number line or a small group of counters to model adding one. Pause to check the first answer together before continuing.

Ask your child to explain why the chosen number comes next. A number can be larger than the prompt and still be wrong if it skips the immediate next step. Count forward by one to check an uncertain choice. Keep the work brief enough for careful checking. An adult can support the reading and pencil work while the child makes the number decision.

Explore the counting and number sense collection for another task at a suitable level. The Early Math Essentials set includes related number activities. After the page, try one example with small household objects, using the same counting rule. Ask your child to show the answer and explain how they checked it. A new arrangement can help you see whether the idea carries beyond the printed example.