Free printable worksheets · United Kingdom
EYFS Number Tracing Worksheets (Ages 3–5)
EYFS number tracing worksheets are practice sheets for children aged 3–5 in Early Years Foundation Stage in the UK. Number tracing is following the dotted outline of a printed numeral with a pencil, practicing the correct stroke direction and shape for each digit. The sheets on this page cover numeral formation 0–9, correct stroke direction for each digit, number-to-quantity matching and consistent numeral size and spacing.
The Early Years Foundation Stage spans Nursery and Reception and treats a worksheet as a small supplement to play rather than the main event. Mark making, matching and sorting dominate the Nursery year; Reception adds letter formation, sound matching and counting to ten as phonics teaching begins in earnest. Number tracing at three stays within the numerals one to five, each shown large with a thick dotted path and a single starting dot. A worksheet should pair every traced numeral with that many pictures, so the child says the count out loud while tracing the matching digit. Reaching all five digits by the end of the year is a reasonable goal; six through ten and any expectation of writing a numeral without a model are still ahead.
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EYFS Number Tracing Worksheets to print
Browse all worksheets for ages 3–5
Number 10 Worksheet: Trace, Count, and Color!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Children ages 3-5 practice tracing and writing the two-digit number 10 while reinforcing counting to ten through a hands-based counting activity and a number-recognition search task. This worksheet layers several skills — tracing, counting, and visual recognition — to give children multiple ways to practice the same number.
Count the Owls and Chicks! A Fun Counting Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Counting groups of owls and chicks and circling the matching number builds one-to-one correspondence for children ages 3-5, the core skill of touching or pointing to each item exactly once while counting. Working with two different characters in the same activity also teaches children to reset their count for each new group rather than carrying a total over, an easy mistake at this age. This repeated counting-and-matching format across the page builds both accuracy and counting stamina.
Trace Number 13 Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 trace the two-digit number 13 and then scan a grid to find and color every instance of it among other numbers, building visual discrimination alongside handwriting practice. Recognizing 13 in a mixed grid, rather than only in isolation, helps children understand that a number's identity stays the same across different positions and contexts. This searching task also strengthens sustained visual attention, since children must check each number in the grid carefully rather than glance quickly.
Trace the Number 0 Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet introduces children ages 3-5 to the number 0, an abstract and often confusing concept since it represents the absence of a quantity rather than a countable group of objects. Tracing the closed loop of 0 builds the same round pencil control practiced with letters like O, while the coloring task, which asks children to color zero balls, gently introduces the idea that zero means none at all. This early exposure to zero as a real number lays groundwork for understanding it fully in later math.
Trace and Count: Number 7 Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 trace the number 7, formed from a straight horizontal line followed by a diagonal line down, and then count out seven cars from a larger group, an important step up from earlier worksheets that show only the exact quantity needed. Because the page includes more cars than the number seven, children must count carefully and stop at the right point rather than simply circling everything shown. This distinction between 'how many are here' and 'find exactly this many' builds a more precise counting skill.
Trace and Color the Number 2 Worksheet
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Tracing the number 2 introduces children ages 3-5 to a curved-then-straight stroke pattern, different from the single line of number 1, which builds more complex pencil control. Coloring exactly two soccer balls after tracing reinforces that the numeral 2 represents a specific quantity of two items, not just a shape to copy. This early pairing of writing a number with counting a matching set builds the number sense children will rely on throughout math.
Number Writing Worksheet: Trace, Write, Count, and Paste Numbers!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This multi-step worksheet strengthens number formation, counting, and one-to-one correspondence all in one activity, as children ages 3-5 trace and write numerals, then count a group of objects and paste the matching quantity in a box. Combining writing with hands-on counting and cutting helps children connect the written symbol to the actual amount it represents, a key milestone in early numeracy.
Above and Below the Sea Worksheet: Counting Objects
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet combines counting practice with the positional concepts of 'above' and 'below,' asking children to count separate groups of objects located in different parts of an ocean scene. For ages 3-5, connecting counting to spatial position adds an extra layer of thinking beyond simple one-to-one counting, reinforcing both numeracy and early positional vocabulary.
Tracing the Number 3 Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet gives children ages 3-5 repeated practice forming the numeral 3, first with a pencil and then with a fingerpaint-dipped finger, using the curved double-bump stroke that makes 3 tricky for many young writers. Practicing the same numeral through two different tactile methods — pencil and paint — reinforces the motor memory of the shape through varied sensory experience.
Count the Sea Animals! A Fun Counting Worksheet for Kids
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 count different sea animals grouped in boxes and then identify the matching numeral for each group, strengthening one-to-one correspondence alongside early ocean and marine-life vocabulary. Because each box features a different sea creature, such as fish, crabs, or starfish, children also practice sorting attention between groups rather than counting one long continuous row. This variety keeps the counting task from becoming rote repetition.
Count and Match: Numbers Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet builds number recognition and one-to-one counting in children ages 3-5 by having them count sets of objects and then identify or match the correct numeral. Counting stationery items and circling the matching number reinforces that a numeral represents an exact quantity, not just a symbol to memorize. Matching fruits to candy quantities on a second section adds variety and repeated practice with different object types.
Number 5 Tracing Worksheet for Preschoolers: Trace, Count, and Color!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 trace the number 5, a shape combining a straight line, a curve, and a short horizontal stroke, one of the more complex early numerals to form correctly. Counting and coloring exactly five apples reinforces the specific quantity the numeral 5 represents while also introducing the idea of counting a full hand's worth of objects, since five matches the fingers on one hand. This worksheet's trace-count-trace structure also builds the habit of returning to check work after a counting task.
Number Tracing Worksheet 1-20: Practice Writing Numbers!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 trace every number from 1 to 20 in sequence, giving them a single, comprehensive review of number formation across the entire range they're expected to master before kindergarten. Practicing the full sequence in one sitting, rather than one number at a time, also reinforces the order of the counting sequence itself, since children see each number in its proper place relative to the ones before and after it. Following directional arrows throughout builds the habit of starting every numeral in the correct place.
Trace and Write Numbers 0-5 Worksheet
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Tracing and writing the numbers 0 through 5 builds the specific hand strokes needed to form each numeral correctly, a skill that develops separately from simply being able to count or recognize numbers by sight for children ages 3-5. Following the tracing with a counting-and-writing section, where children count objects and record the total themselves, connects the motor skill of writing numbers directly to their meaning as quantities. Practicing this small, foundational range first builds the confidence needed before tackling larger numbers later.
Missing Numbers: Ice Cream Fun Worksheet for Kids
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet helps children ages 3-5 practice number sequencing by identifying and writing in the missing numerals within a series of ice cream cones and cars, numbers 1 through 10. Filling in a gap within an otherwise familiar sequence requires children to hold the whole counting order in mind and recognize what number logically belongs in the empty spot, which is more demanding than counting forward from the start each time. The playful ice cream and car theme keeps the repeated number practice visually engaging.
Trace and Write the Number 0 Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet gives children ages 3-5 focused practice forming the number 0, building the fine motor control and pencil grip needed for handwriting while reinforcing that 0 represents 'none' or an empty group. Tracing the curved stroke repeatedly also helps children internalize the shape through muscle memory, which supports faster, more confident number writing later.
Number 9 Worksheet: Trace, Count, and Color!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet helps children ages 3-5 learn to recognize and write the number 9 through guided tracing, while counting fingers and bees builds fine motor coordination alongside number sense as they count all the way up to nine. Practicing the same number across three different activities, tracing, writing, and counting, helps the numeral and its quantity stick together in memory.
Number 9 Tracing Worksheet: Learn to Trace and Count!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet has children ages 3-5 trace the number 9, formed from a small loop at the top connected to a straight or slightly curved line down, and then count and color nine circles to reinforce the specific quantity nine represents. Because 9 shares its top loop with numbers like 6, tracing it helps children notice similarities between numerals rather than treating each one as completely unrelated. This worksheet also pushes counting practice right up to the edge of the single-digit range, just before 10.
Number Two Worksheet: Trace, Count, and Color!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet helps children ages 3-5 learn to recognize and write the number two, count to two, and follow multi-step instructions across tracing, coloring, and counting sections. Practicing such a small number thoroughly, across several activities, builds the routine and confidence children need before moving on to larger numbers.
Number Tracing Worksheet: Trace and Count to 16!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet gives children ages 3-5 another round of practice tracing the number 16 and counting out a matching set of sixteen squares, reinforcing a number that many children need to see multiple times before it feels automatic. Repeating a teen number across more than one worksheet is intentional, since two-digit number writing and counting into the teens take longer to solidify than single-digit skills. This repeated exposure builds the fluency needed before moving further into the higher teens and toward 20.
Number 1 Fun: Tracing, Coloring, and Counting Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet helps children recognize, trace, and count the number 1 through a combination of tracing practice, coloring watermelon slices and number blocks, and identifying the numeral within a sequence. For three- to five-year-olds, this multi-activity approach reinforces the same number from several angles — written form, spoken word, and counted quantity — so the concept of '1' is reinforced from more than one direction.
Number Tracing Worksheet: Trace and Find the Number 11!
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
This worksheet introduces children ages 3-5 to their first two-digit number, helping them understand that 11 is written with two number 1s placed side by side rather than as a brand-new symbol. Tracing 11 builds the pencil control needed to write two digits neatly in a row, while the search-and-find grid strengthens visual scanning skills as children pick 11 out from a field of similar-looking numbers. This combination supports both number recognition and the beginning of place-value thinking.
Coin Counting Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Counting coins introduces children ages 3-5 to an early form of real-world numeracy, since recognizing different coin types by sight and counting how many of each appear builds both visual discrimination and one-to-one counting practice with a practical, everyday application. This worksheet keeps the task simple by having children count quantities of each coin type rather than calculating monetary value, which is developmentally appropriate for this age before formal money-math skills are introduced. It also plants the early seed of understanding that different coins look different and can be sorted by type.
Connect the Dots: Sunny Day Picture Worksheet
Ages 3-5 · Preschool–Pre-KAges 3-5 · Nursery–ReceptionAges 3-5 · Nursery–LKGAges 3-5
Connecting the dots from 1 to 40 gives 3-5 year olds real practice with number sequencing well beyond the basic 1-10 range most preschool materials cover, while the physical act of drawing a line from dot to dot builds the same pencil control needed for handwriting. Because the picture only appears once every number has been found and connected in order, it also rewards sustained attention — your child has to keep track of where they are in the sequence across a fairly long worksheet, which is a real stretch at this age.
What EYFS number tracing worksheets cover
Number tracing at three stays within the numerals one to five, each shown large with a thick dotted path and a single starting dot. A worksheet should pair every traced numeral with that many pictures, so the child says the count out loud while tracing the matching digit. Reaching all five digits by the end of the year is a reasonable goal; six through ten and any expectation of writing a numeral without a model are still ahead.
- Trace numerals one to five along a thick dotted path
- Count the pictures beside a numeral while tracing it
- Say the numeral's name aloud with each traced stroke
- Match a traced numeral to a group of that many dots
How to use these worksheets at home or in class
Five to ten minutes at a table, with an adult alongside to talk through the sheet, is enough at any point in this stage. Use a worksheet to echo something already met through play that week rather than to introduce a brand new idea.
Start with the sheet that matches what your child can already do, then move one step up. Keep finished sheets in a folder: EYFS teachers often ask for evidence of practice, and children like seeing their own progress.
Is your child ready for EYFS number tracing work?
Look for a child who can make deliberate marks with a crayon, sit briefly at a table, follow a one-step spoken instruction and show curiosity about letters or numbers seen around the house or classroom.
- Trace numerals one to ten with a marked starting dot
- Count a group of objects, then trace the matching numeral
- Follow the arrow so curved numerals like 2 and 3 start right
Frequently asked questions
Should a three-year-old trace numbers before or after counting practice?
After, and alongside rather than instead of it. A child who can count five objects reliably gets far more out of tracing the numeral 5, because the digit is standing for something already understood. Tracing numerals before counting is secure tends to produce a shape copied without meaning. Keep counting games running daily and add numeral tracing for whichever number the child can already count to with confidence.
What should a EYFS child be able to do in number tracing?
Number tracing at three stays within the numerals one to five, each shown large with a thick dotted path and a single starting dot. A worksheet should pair every traced numeral with that many pictures, so the child says the count out loud while tracing the matching digit. Reaching all five digits by the end of the year is a reasonable goal; six through ten and any expectation of writing a numeral without a model are still ahead. Look for a child who can make deliberate marks with a crayon, sit briefly at a table, follow a one-step spoken instruction and show curiosity about letters or numbers seen around the house or classroom.
Do these worksheets follow the EYFS curriculum?
The sheets cover numeral formation 0–9, correct stroke direction for each digit, number-to-quantity matching and consistent numeral size and spacing, which sit inside the EYFS Early Learning Goals (Statutory Framework) outcomes for EYFS. Preschool and Pre-K (US), Nursery and LKG (India) use the same skills at this age, so the sheets also fit families following those programmes.
Are these EYFS number tracing worksheets free?
Yes. Each worksheet downloads free as a watermarked PDF once you create an account, with a limit of five a day. An annual membership ($20) removes the watermark and the limit for the whole library of over 1,000 worksheets and every printable pack.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Written and reviewed by Hemsweta Jain (Teacher Cheena), who designs every RaisoActive worksheet.
Last reviewed
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