Make numeracy fun and meaningful with The Pigeon Has to Go to School: Pigeon’s Number Problem – an engaging back-to-school maths activity designed to connect literature and number sense. Based on the beloved book by Mo Willems, this purposeful task provides students with an opportunity to practise early number skills while reinforcing concepts through a familiar and playful character.

This activity set includes a variety of number sequencing worksheets, offering both structure and flexibility. Students will complete tasks such as ordering numbers from 1 to 10 or 1 to 20, tracing numerals, cutting and pasting, and writing their own number sequences. These varied options ensure that the resource can cater to learners at different stages and allow for easy differentiation right from the start of the school year.

Whether you’re working with students in whole class lessons, small groups, or setting independent tasks, Pigeon’s Number Problem fits seamlessly into your daily maths routine. It supports students in developing strong number recognition and numeral formation, while encouraging correct pencil grip, focus, and fine motor control. The connection to a popular picture book adds an element of joy and creativity to what is often a routine skill-building task.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Identify and sequence numbers from 1 to 10 and 1 to 20
• ✅ Practise correct numeral formation using tracing and writing tasks
• ✅ Develop number recognition through cut-and-paste and sorting activities
• ✅ Strengthen fine motor skills such as pencil control and scissor use
• ✅ Apply early numeracy strategies in a literature-linked context

What’s Included

• Printable worksheets in two number ranges: 1–10 and 1–20
• Cut-and-paste sequencing worksheets
• Trace-and-write numeral practice sheets
• Editable templates to customise for student needs or font preferences

Materials Needed

• Printed worksheet copies (choose the range and task that suits)
• Scissors and glue sticks for cut-and-paste tasks
• Pencils or crayons for tracing and writing activities
• Access to the book The Pigeon Has to Go to School by Mo Willems

How to Use

1. Read The Pigeon Has to Go to School aloud to the class and discuss how Pigeon is preparing for school.
2. Introduce the number problem worksheet and explain the task based on the selected version.
3. Students complete their worksheet by cutting, tracing, or writing numbers in the correct order.
4. Use A3 printing for students who benefit from more space to work.
5. Review answers together and celebrate students' success in solving Pigeon’s number problem!

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use as a fun first-week activity that blends literacy and numeracy
• 💡 Include in your relief teacher folder for a no-prep, high-impact task
• 💡 Set up as a maths rotation station focused on sequencing or formation
• 💡 Laminate and reuse with whiteboard markers in small group settings
• 💡 Pair students for collaborative number ordering and discussion

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Customise the editable version using your preferred font or to create additional differentiation options
• 💛 Provide number lines or anchor charts as scaffolds for students still developing sequencing skills
• 💛 Use visuals from the book or a plush Pigeon toy to enhance engagement and create a book-themed learning corner

The Pigeon Has to Go to School: Pigeon’s Number Problem is the perfect way to kick off your maths program with purpose, connection to literature, and joyful number learning.