Looking for a fun way to strengthen number recognition and fine motor skills at the same time? Hole Punch It: Numbers is the perfect hands-on resource for early learners! This engaging activity encourages students to use a hole punch to trace the shape of each numeral from 0 to 9—combining counting practice with a purposeful muscle-building task.

By aligning the hole punch with the printed circles that form each number, students work on visual tracking, hand–eye coordination, and finger strength. As they squeeze the punch and follow the number outline, they’re not just recognising numerals—they’re building foundational writing and pre-literacy skills through controlled, repetitive hand movement.

Hole Punch It: Numbers is ideal for fine motor rotations, numeracy centres, one-on-one intervention, or morning bins. With minimal prep and flexible application, it fits seamlessly into a range of classroom settings and supports students at various stages of development. It's an especially helpful activity for students who need extra support with hand strength or number formation.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Recognise and form numbers 0–9 through fine motor activity
• ✅ Build finger strength, hand control, and pincer grip
• ✅ Improve spatial awareness and alignment by following visual guides
• ✅ Support pre-writing and number formation through repeated hand action
• ✅ Develop one-to-one correspondence through slow, intentional punching

What’s Included

• Number mats for 0–9 featuring punchable circle outlines
• Clear visual guides for each numeral shape
• Simple instruction suggestions for classroom or home use

Materials Needed

• Printed number mats (on paper or lightweight card)
• Single hole puncher (standard handheld model)
• Optional: tongs or tweezers for extension activities
• Plastic pockets or folders for storing completed work

How to Use

1. Print the number mats and give each student a copy of the numeral they are working on.
2. Provide students with a handheld hole puncher and model how to follow the circular outline.
3. Students carefully punch holes along the marked circles to create the number shape.
4. Encourage students to count aloud as they punch to reinforce number fluency and one-to-one correspondence.
5. Display completed work, or store in student folders as evidence of both number and fine motor development.
6. Repeat over time to build muscle memory and confidence with number formation.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use in your fine motor rotation with a different number each day
• 💡 Set up as an independent morning bin for early finishers
• 💡 Pair with number tracing activities for a multisensory learning experience
• 💡 Include in intervention groups for students needing extra fine motor support
• 💡 Incorporate into a numeracy unit focused on number formation and recognition

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Print on lightweight card for easier handling and cleaner punches
• 💛 Laminate a sample set for demonstration or to keep at a model station
• 💛 Allow students to decorate their punched numbers with stickers or markers afterward
• 💛 Encourage students to use both hands to hold and guide the puncher for stability and control

Hole Punch It: Numbers offers the perfect combination of early number learning and essential fine motor skill development – one satisfying punch at a time!