Build confidence with number sequences and develop flexible counting skills using the Count Forwards, Count Back! To 20 Activity. This engaging and interactive game supports students in practising both forwards and backwards counting from any given number up to 20.

The game uses direction arrows and number cards to prompt students to count either forwards to 20 or backwards to 0, depending on the combination they draw. Green arrows indicate forward counting, while red arrows prompt backwards counting. With built-in visual supports and a number line for reference, this activity is ideal for developing fluency and supporting number pattern recognition.

Whether used as a whole class warm-up, small group game, or independent station activity, this resource provides flexibility and fun. It’s a simple way to help students reach key number targets while encouraging collaborative learning and active participation.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Practise counting forwards to 20 from any starting number
• ✅ Practise counting backwards to 0 from any starting number
• ✅ Identify and apply number sequence patterns
• ✅ Use number lines and visual cues for support

What’s Included

• Game board with space for arrows and number card piles
• Green arrows for counting forwards
• Red arrows for counting backwards
• Number cards from 0 to 20
• Number line printed at the bottom of the board for reference

Materials Needed

• Printed game board
• Printed and cut arrow and number cards
• Containers or small trays for card piles
• Optional: laminator for durability

How to Use

1. Print and prepare the arrows and number cards
2. Place all green (forward) and red (backward) arrows in one pile, and number cards in another
3. Students draw one card from each pile - an arrow and a number
4. If a green arrow is drawn, they count forwards from that number to 20
5. If a red arrow is drawn, they count backwards from that number to 0
6. Students can count aloud as a group or take turns individually
7. Use the number line to support students who are still developing fluency

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use as a maths warm-up to energise and prepare students for learning
• 💡 Play as a whole class activity to model counting strategies
• 💡 Include in small group rotations for hands-on number practice
• 💡 Encourage students to challenge each other in pairs once confident

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Laminate all cards and boards for durability and reuse
• 💛 Use coloured containers to match arrow colours for quick setup
• 💛 Introduce directional vocabulary such as 'ascending' and 'descending' for deeper understanding

Count Forwards, Count Back! To 20 Activity is a practical and playful way to reinforce number sequencing and counting skills. With visual supports and interactive play, your students will be counting with confidence in no time.