Make number recognition fun and engaging with the Number Collector Game: Recognising Numbers 1–5 – a bright and hands-on board game designed to reinforce early numeracy skills. As students move around the colourful board, they identify and match numbers in a variety of representations, building confidence with numbers from 1 to 5 in a playful and purposeful way.

As students land on each space, they examine the number representation and place a counter on the matching section of their “My Number Collection” strip. With each turn, they’re encouraged to recognise numerals in different formats – from ten frames to tally marks and more – supporting a deep understanding of early number concepts. The first player to complete their strip by collecting all five numbers wins!

This interactive game is perfect for numeracy rotations, small group activities, or targeted intervention sessions. It’s also easy to differentiate and extend by adjusting the number of required collections or adding discussion prompts. Pair it with the Number Collector Assessment for evidence of student learning and skill progression.

Key Learning Outcomes

• ✅ Recognise and identify numbers 1 to 5 in various visual formats
• ✅ Match number representations with their corresponding numerals
• ✅ Develop turn-taking and problem-solving strategies in gameplay
• ✅ Build confidence in early number recognition through hands-on repetition
• ✅ Strengthen social and communication skills in a collaborative setting

What’s Included

6 x Number Collector game boards in high and low colour options

7 x “My Number Collection” strips in both colour and black and white

Clear teacher instructions for setup and gameplay

Suggested use and pairing ideas with linked resources

Materials Needed

Printed game boards and collection strips

Dice and small game pieces

Counters or tokens

Laminating materials (optional for reusability)

How to Use

1. Print and prepare the game boards and number collection strips. Choose colour or black and white versions as needed.
2. Laminate the materials for durability and repeated use.
3. Each player receives a “My Number Collection” strip and places a game piece at the starting point on the board.
4. Players take turns rolling a die and moving their game piece accordingly.
5. When they land on a square, they identify the number shown in that space and place a counter in the matching section of their strip.
6. The first player to collect all five number representations wins the game!
7. Follow up with a reflection or class discussion on number representations, or assess using the linked assessment resource.

Ideas for Classroom Use

• 💡 Use in small group rotations to target early number skills
• 💡 Set up as a fast finisher task or numeracy centre option
• 💡 Incorporate into intervention sessions for students needing additional support
• 💡 Introduce as a whole-class demonstration before transitioning to partner play

Top Teacher Tips

• 💛 Print on coloured card or laminate for long-term use
• 💛 Pair with physical number cards for added tactile reinforcement
• 💛 Encourage students to explain the representation aloud each time they place a counter
• 💛 Use the black and white version as a printable to send home for family maths practice

Hands-on, visual, and easy to prep, the Number Collector Game: Recognising Numbers 1–5 makes early numeracy meaningful and fun – while giving students multiple ways to interact with and explore the concept of number!