If you think back to elementary school, you might remember being discouraged or even teased  for using your fingers to count or find solutions to math problems. But here’s the thing—fingers are actually one of the best tools for early math learning! From helping young children recognize number patterns to building a strong foundation for understanding benchmark numbers of five and ten, finger counting is a great way to visualize numbers And the best part? You always have them closeby!

Let’s explore why fingers are such a powerful tool for learning math through play!

Subitizing finger patterns

Subitizing (or recognizing the number of objects in a small set without counting) is an essential early math skill. While you might think about subitizing dot patterns on dice or playing cards, finger patterns are also another great way for kids to visualize number patterns.

When your child can recognize that holding up three fingers is labeled as “three,” and eventually show numbers on their own hands, they can start to "see" the number three without needing to count each finger. This simple, playful interaction builds foundational number sense, setting the stage for more complex math later on.

Understanding the base-10 system

Our number system revolves around groups of ten, and fingers naturally support this (in fact, some argue that our math system is designed the way it is because of our fingers!). With five fingers on each hand, children begin to see how numbers group together to make 10. Ten and five are often referred to as “benchmark” numbers because being able to flexibly build and break apart groups of 10 helps kids use more effective strategies and strengthen their mental math skills.

By counting on their fingers, children aren’t just learning to count—they’re discovering how numbers relate to each other. For example, recognizing that 10 can be broken down into 9 and 1, 8 and 2, 7, and 3, and so on (also referred to as “number bonds to 10”) helps set the stage for a deep understanding of addition and subtraction as they grow. 

Fingers make math play fun and accessible

One of the best things about using fingers is that they’re always available! Whether you're in the car, waiting at the doctor’s office, or sitting down for dinner, your child can engage with math play anytime, anywhere. For a quick game to practice subitizing and creating finger patterns, try playing “Gimme Five!” Hold up some fingers on your hand for just a few seconds, and ask your child to call out what number they see as fast as they can, then switch! Or call out a number and challenge your child to show that finger pattern on their hand. 

Bringing it all together

Next time your child starts counting on their fingers, remember that it’s a great strategy to visualize numbers and that it can support a ton of meaningful math learning! Fingers are a powerful tool for developing number sense and building an understanding of our base-10 system. By embracing fingers as a playful and hands-on math tool, you’ll help your child develop a positive relationship with math and a strong number sense that will set them up for success as they learn more!

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