Free printable worksheets · United Kingdom
KS1 Subtraction Worksheets (Ages 5–7)
KS1 subtraction worksheets are practice sheets for children aged 5–7 in Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2) in the UK. Subtraction is taking a smaller group away from a larger one, or comparing two groups, to find how many or how much remain. The sheets on this page cover taking away from a group, counting back from a number, finding the difference between two numbers and fact families linked to addition.
Key Stage 1 covers Years 1 and 2 together, the stretch in which a child becomes an independent reader and writer while moving from counting to calculating. Year 1 work centres on phonics and the screening check; Year 2 shifts towards spelling patterns, longer writing and mental arithmetic with two-digit numbers. Between five and six the action moves onto paper. A child crosses out pictures, counts the survivors, and for the first time writes the result as a number sentence with a minus sign. Sheets at this age should stay within ten, show the objects for every problem, and introduce a number line so counting back becomes a strategy rather than a guess. Instant recall of subtraction facts is not expected; counting, out loud, still is.
- 56 worksheets
- Free PDF download
- Print on A4 or Letter
Made for your child
Taking away within 10, made for your child
A maths pack with your child's name in it: pictures that explain, practice at three levels, puzzles and story sums about them. Print a new set whenever they finish.
Make a maths packFree preview · free for members
KS1 Subtraction Worksheets to print
Browse all worksheets for ages 5–7
3-Digit Subtraction Worksheet for Kids
Ages 5-7 · Kindergarten–Grade 1Ages 5-7 · Year 1–Year 2Ages 5-7 · UKG–Class 1Ages 5-7
Subtracting three-digit numbers introduces children to borrowing, or regrouping, across place value columns, a more demanding skill than simple subtraction since it requires understanding that a ten can be 'broken' into ones when a column doesn't have enough to subtract from. For ages five to seven, this worksheet builds the procedural foundation for confident multi-digit subtraction going forward.
Pumpkin Shapes and Sizes: Halloween Ordering and Shapes Worksheet
Ages 4-8 · Pre-K–Grade 2Ages 4-8 · Reception–Year 3Ages 4-8 · LKG–Class 2Ages 4-8
Children order objects by size, recognise and count triangles, circles, squares and stars, and use shapes to design a face.
Treat Count Picture Graph: Halloween Data Handling Worksheet
Ages 4-8 · Pre-K–Grade 2Ages 4-8 · Reception–Year 3Ages 4-8 · LKG–Class 2Ages 4-8
Children count five kinds of Halloween treats, record them as a picture graph and read it to compare amounts.
Crossword Math Worksheet: Fill in the Missing Numbers!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This crossword-style worksheet has 4-6 year olds solve a series of subtraction equations to fill in missing numbers, then cross-check their answers by matching them across and down within the grid — a built-in accuracy check that regular subtraction worksheets don't offer. Because an answer has to be correct in both directions to complete the crossword properly, this format naturally encourages your child to double-check their subtraction rather than move on after a single attempt.
Subtraction Worksheet: Practice Subtracting with Fun Pictures!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Children ages 4-6 practice subtraction by looking at a set of pictured objects, crossing out or removing the indicated amount, and writing the resulting total. Seeing subtraction visually, rather than only as abstract numbers, helps children genuinely understand what 'taking away' means before relying on memorized facts. This visual approach builds a strong foundation for mental math strategies used in later grades.
Subtraction Fun: Count and Subtract with Hands and Objects!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet introduces basic subtraction by having children count a starting group of objects and then 'take away' a smaller amount indicated by the minus sign, connecting the abstract concept of subtraction to something they can see and count. For four- to six-year-olds, visualizing subtraction as physically removing objects from a group — rather than just manipulating numbers — makes the concept concrete before they move to solving subtraction problems with numbers alone.
Diwali Diya Maths: Add the Flames and Find the Missing Diyas
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Children add small groups of lit diyas, compare two rows to decide which has more, and work out how many faded diyas are still needed to reach a total. Tia gives a hint to start the first sum.
Word Problems Worksheet: Practice Subtraction with Fun Pictures!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This subtraction word problem worksheet gives children ages 4-6 practice translating a short story into a math equation, using pictures of objects being taken away to make the abstract idea of subtraction concrete. Reading, counting, and subtracting in sequence builds the same problem-solving pathway children will rely on for more advanced word problems later in school. Visual supports, like crossed-out or removed objects in the pictures, help children see subtraction as an action rather than just a symbol.
Golu Doll Fun: Navratri Golu Counting and Sharing Worksheet
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Children learn that a golu is a display of dolls on steps set up for Navratri. They count the dolls on each step and find the total, then share cups of sundal among friends and count what is left over.
Navratri Counting Worksheet: Count the Festival Fun
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Children count small groups of festival pictures and write the number, trace and write the numbers 1 to 9, compare two groups to find the one with more, and colour a set number of diyas.
Subtraction Worksheet: Count and Subtract with Fun Objects!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet grounds subtraction in something 4-6 year olds can actually see and count — a group of objects being taken away — rather than starting with abstract numerals and symbols. Because your child has to count the starting group, physically account for the number being subtracted, and then count what's left, this builds real number sense about what subtraction means, not just a memorized fact.
Subtraction Fun: Practice Problems for Early Learners
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet gives children ages 4-6 repeated practice with basic subtraction, working through simple equations and word problems that build number sense before formal arithmetic instruction begins. Filling in missing numbers within equations also introduces the idea that subtraction is reversible and connected to addition, an early step toward flexible number thinking. Repeated, varied practice like this helps subtraction facts move from effortful counting to quick recall.
Subtraction Fun: Candy and Treats Worksheet for Kids!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet gives children ages 4-6 concrete practice with subtraction by counting pictured candies and treats, then taking away a stated amount to find the difference. Using a visually appealing, countable context like candy makes the abstract idea of 'taking away' easier to grasp than numbers alone, helping children build the one-to-one counting and comparison skills that subtraction depends on.
Fun Add & Subtract Worksheet for Preschoolers!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet introduces children ages 4-6 to the basics of addition and subtraction by having them count pictured objects, record the quantities, and then combine or take away groups to find a total. Working with visual objects rather than abstract numbers alone helps children build a concrete understanding of what addition and subtraction actually mean before they're expected to solve equations using numbers only.
Subtraction Fun: Count and Subtract with Cute Animals!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Counting a group of animal pictures and then crossing out or removing a specified number teaches children ages 4-6 the concept of subtraction as taking away from a starting quantity, which is easier to grasp visually than through numbers alone. Writing the remaining total after the take-away step reinforces that subtraction results in a smaller, specific number, connecting the physical act of removing objects to a written numeral. Using cute animal pictures as the countable objects keeps a potentially tricky math concept approachable and fun.
Word Problems Worksheet for Early Learners
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Children ages 4-6 practice applying subtraction to real-life scenarios by reading short word problems and figuring out how many items remain after some are taken away, connecting basic subtraction facts to reading comprehension. Translating a written story into a subtraction problem is a more advanced skill than solving bare number sentences, since it requires understanding what the story is actually asking.
Subtraction Worksheet: Count and Subtract for Preschoolers
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet introduces children ages 4-6 to subtraction by having them count a group of objects, take away the indicated amount, and write the resulting difference. Grounding subtraction in physical counting rather than abstract number facts helps children build real number sense, understanding subtraction as 'taking away' rather than just memorizing symbols and answers.
Subtraction Fun: Counting and Subtracting Worksheet for Kids
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet teaches children ages 4-6 the concept of subtraction by having them count a group of stars, cross out a specified number, and write how many remain — making the abstract idea of 'taking away' visible and countable rather than purely symbolic. Physically crossing out objects before writing the answer helps children understand subtraction as an action, which is more intuitive at this age than memorizing subtraction facts.
Subtraction Fun: Cut and Paste the Answers!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet grounds subtraction in something concrete for children ages 4-6 by having them count visual object groups, subtract, and then physically select and paste the correct numeral answer from a set of choices. Counting objects before subtracting keeps the math anchored in real quantities rather than abstract numerals alone, which is exactly the kind of support young learners need before they're ready for purely symbolic subtraction. The cut-and-paste answer selection also adds a layer of verification, since your child has to search through several numeral options to find the one that truly matches their calculated answer.
Flower Power Subtraction Worksheet for Kids
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet gives children ages 4-6 hands-on subtraction practice using a flower-themed counting context, asking them to count pictured objects, subtract a given amount, and write the difference in a circle. The visual, countable format helps make subtraction concrete rather than abstract, reinforcing that 'taking away' reduces a group's total in a way children can see and verify by recounting.
Subtraction Worksheet: Find the Row with Matching Answers!
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet pushes subtraction practice a step further for children ages 4-6 by having them solve several subtraction problems and then compare the answers across different rows to find matches, adding a layer of number-sense reasoning on top of basic calculation. Recognizing that two different subtraction problems can produce the same answer helps children understand that numbers can be reached in more than one way, which is an important early step toward flexible mathematical thinking. This kind of comparison task also builds attention to detail, since a child has to solve every problem accurately before the matching rows can be found.
Word Problems Worksheet: Solving for Addition and Subtraction
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
This worksheet builds the ability to translate real-world scenarios into number sentences, teaching children ages 4-6 to spot clue words like 'gave away' or 'found more' that signal whether to add or subtract. It also practices reading comprehension applied to math, a key step as children move from rote counting toward applied reasoning.
Word Problems Worksheet: Solving Addition and Subtraction
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Solving a mix of addition and subtraction word problems trains children ages 4-6 to decide which operation a story calls for, based on whether it describes combining groups or taking something away, a key reasoning skill before formal equation writing.
Addition and Subtraction Sums Worksheet for Preschoolers
Ages 4-6 · Pre-K–KindergartenAges 4-6 · Reception–Year 1Ages 4-6 · LKG–UKGAges 4-6
Practicing addition and subtraction problems within 10 together, rather than in separate worksheets, helps children see the two operations as related, that subtraction can undo addition, which builds more flexible number sense than drilling each skill in isolation. For ages four to six, working within small numbers keeps the focus on understanding the operations rather than on managing large quantities.
What KS1 subtraction worksheets cover
Between five and six the action moves onto paper. A child crosses out pictures, counts the survivors, and for the first time writes the result as a number sentence with a minus sign. Sheets at this age should stay within ten, show the objects for every problem, and introduce a number line so counting back becomes a strategy rather than a guess. Instant recall of subtraction facts is not expected; counting, out loud, still is.
- Cross out pictures and write the matching number sentence within 10
- Hop backward on a 0–10 number line to solve 9 − 4
- Fill subtraction bonds of 5 and 10 with one number missing
- Count down from 10 to 1 aloud before starting the sheet
- Solve a picture word problem: seven ducks, three swim away
How to use these worksheets at home or in class
Because this stage spans two years, match the sheet to what the classroom is doing rather than to age alone: decoding and number bonds for a Year 1 child, comprehension and times tables for a Year 2 child, in sessions of fifteen to twenty minutes.
Start with the sheet that matches what your child can already do, then move one step up. Keep finished sheets in a folder: KS1 teachers often ask for evidence of practice, and children like seeing their own progress.
Is your child ready for KS1 subtraction work?
A child ready for the later half of this stage reads a short passage with reasonable fluency, writes several connected sentences, adds and subtracts within twenty and recalls the 2, 5 and 10 times tables with growing confidence.
- Write all four facts in a family from 8, 6 and 14
- Find the missing number in 15 − ? = 9
- Subtract through ten in two steps, taking 4 then 2 from 14
Frequently asked questions
Why does my five-year-old add when the sheet says subtract?
Because adding is the habit and the sign is small. Children at five have spent a year joining groups, so when two numbers appear they combine them unless something stops them. Mixed sheets that alternate plus and minus force a look at the sign each time. Before each row, ask the child to point to the sign and say "take away" or "add" before touching the pencil. The habit usually corrects itself within a few sessions.
What should a KS1 child be able to do in subtraction?
Between five and six the action moves onto paper. A child crosses out pictures, counts the survivors, and for the first time writes the result as a number sentence with a minus sign. Sheets at this age should stay within ten, show the objects for every problem, and introduce a number line so counting back becomes a strategy rather than a guess. Instant recall of subtraction facts is not expected; counting, out loud, still is. A child ready for the later half of this stage reads a short passage with reasonable fluency, writes several connected sentences, adds and subtracts within twenty and recalls the 2, 5 and 10 times tables with growing confidence.
Do these worksheets follow the KS1 curriculum?
The sheets cover taking away from a group, counting back from a number, finding the difference between two numbers and fact families linked to addition, which sit inside the National Curriculum Key Stage 1 outcomes for KS1. Kindergarten to 1st Grade (US), UKG to Class 1 (India) use the same skills at this age, so the sheets also fit families following those programmes.
Are these KS1 subtraction 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
Printable packs for ages 5–7
Summer Activity Pack: Math, Literacy, Puzzles & More for Preschool & Kindergarten
Ages 3-7 · Preschool–Grade 1Ages 3-7 · Nursery–Year 2Ages 3-7 · Nursery–Class 1Ages 3-7 · 26 pages
Logical Reasoning Activity Book for Preschool & Kindergarten | Patterns, Sudoku, Mazes & Coding
Ages 4-7 · Pre-K–Grade 1Ages 4-7 · Reception–Year 2Ages 4-7 · LKG–Class 1Ages 4-7 · 34 pages
Lifecycles Activity Book & Flashcards for Preschool & Early Elementary
Ages 3-8 · Preschool–Grade 2Ages 3-8 · Nursery–Year 3Ages 3-8 · Nursery–Class 2Ages 3-8 · 46 pages
Phonics Level 3 Long Vowels Activity Book for Kindergarten & 1st Grade
Ages 5-7 · Kindergarten–Grade 1Ages 5-7 · Year 1–Year 2Ages 5-7 · UKG–Class 1Ages 5-7 · 52 pages
Phonics Level 2 Worksheets: CVC, CCVC, CVCC Word Families & Blends for Early Readers (Ages 4-7)
Ages 4-7 · Pre-K–Grade 1Ages 4-7 · Reception–Year 2Ages 4-7 · LKG–Class 1Ages 4-7 · 52 pages
Phonics Level 1 Activity Book: Letter Sounds, Blending & CVC Words for Preschool & Kindergarten
Ages 3-6 · Preschool–KindergartenAges 3-6 · Nursery–Year 1Ages 3-6 · Nursery–UKGAges 3-6 · 62 pages
Guides for parents and teachers
See all guides
Number Formation Rhymes 0–9 and How to Fix Reversals
Original number formation rhymes for 0–9, the correct stroke order for each digit, why 3, 5 and 7 get reversed most often, and multisensory fixes that work.
UKG Syllabus Explained: English, Maths and EVS Month by Month
What UKG classes typically cover in English, maths and EVS, month by month, aligned to NEP 2020, with ways to support at home and signs your child is behind.
Christmas and Winter Activities That Combine Fun and Learning: Creating Magical Educational Experiences
Discover Christmas and winter activities that combine festive fun with real learning. Crafts, counting, literacy, and printable worksheets for ages 2 to 8 — perfect for home and school.
Age-Appropriate Halloween Learning Activities: Balancing Spooks and Skills for Young Learners
Discover fun, age-appropriate Halloween learning activities for young children. Spooky crafts, counting games, literacy ideas, and printable worksheets for ages 2 to 8.
The Power of Music: How Musical Activities Accelerate Learning Development in Young Children
Discover how musical activities accelerate brain development, phonics, maths, and emotional regulation in children ages 1–8. Practical tips for Indian homes and classrooms.
Is Khan Academy Kids Really Free? A Parent's Complete Guide to Costs, Features, and Hidden Fees
Confirmed: Khan Academy Kids has zero subscription fees, ads, or paywalls. See what's included, age-by-age tips, and offline use for Indian families.