Missing Numbers Worksheet: Before, After, and Between!
This worksheet strengthens number sequencing by asking children to figure out which number comes before, after, or between two given numbers, rather than simply counting from one in order. For four- to six-year-olds, working with numbers 'out of context' like this builds a flexible mental number line, an essential foundation for later addition, subtraction, and skip counting.
Part of the pack
Month 3: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6Curriculum
How to use this worksheet
Look at the first set of numbers with your child and read them aloud, noticing the blank box. Ask whether the missing number needs to come 'before,' 'after,' or 'between' the numbers shown. Have your child count on their fingers or use a number line if needed to figure out the missing value, then write it into the box. Repeat for each row, checking together that the completed sequence counts correctly from start to finish.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- •Have your child create their own 'missing number' puzzles for you to solve.
- •Use blocks or counters to build physical number sequences with gaps for your child to fill in.
- •Practice counting forward and backward starting from different numbers, not just from one.
- •Make a number line on the floor with sticky notes and have your child hop to the missing number.
- •Play a quick oral game: say two numbers and ask what number comes between them.
Tips for parents and teachers
Say the numbers aloud together as your child works, since hearing the sequence spoken often makes the missing number more obvious than staring at the page alone. Provide support by counting alongside your child if they get stuck, but let them land on the final answer themselves.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Every RaisoActive worksheet is designed and checked by the founder before publishing.
Published · Last reviewed
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