Missing Numbers Worksheet: Before, Between, and After
This worksheet asks children ages 4-6 to fill in missing numbers that come before, between, or after given numbers in a sequence, building a deeper understanding of number order than simple counting alone. Recognizing what number is missing from a sequence requires children to mentally hold the number line and reason about relative position, a skill that supports later addition and subtraction.
Part of the pack
Month 3: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6Curriculum
How to use this worksheet
Look at the first sequence together and identify which numbers are already shown and which spot is empty. Ask your child to count aloud from a known number to figure out what belongs in the blank — 'before 5 comes...' or 'between 7 and 9 is...' Have them write the missing number in the box. Repeat for each sequence on the page, using the accompanying pictures as a counting guide when needed.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- •Practice counting forward and backward together out loud, starting from different numbers each time.
- •Make a simple number line on paper or the floor and physically hop to find missing numbers.
- •Use number cards, remove one, and have your child figure out which number is missing from the sequence.
- •Play a car or house number game, calling out addresses or license plates and guessing the next number in sequence.
- •Create your own 'before, between, after' puzzles using sidewalk chalk outside.
Tips for parents and teachers
Notice whether your child solves each blank by counting from the very beginning every time versus starting from a nearby known number — starting nearby is the more advanced strategy and worth gently encouraging. The word 'between' tends to be trickier than 'before' or 'after' since it requires holding two numbers in mind at once, so allow extra time there. Provide assistance as needed, and celebrate their progress even on the harder 'between' items.
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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