Download our number 5 flashcard printable featured in our helpful learning guide; check out our top activities to help children learn how to read and write numbers.

The Number 5 opens up new possibilities for preschoolers as it requires understanding that numbers continue beyond 4. Writing provides an engaging way for young kids to practice numbers like 5 and onwards while exploring their imagination. 

Whether your child is starting with number concepts or ready for more complex skills, these activities encourage learning through play. Not only is progressing to the number 5 essential for learning to read and write numbers, but it will also enhance fine motor skills and aid in your little one’s increasing concentration span. Download our number 5 printable to get started. 

To learn more about writing skills for young minds, check out our round-up of metaphor examples for kids.

Number 5 Activities for Kindergarten and Preschool

Here, you’ll find ideas for writing number stories involving games, everyday objects, and school-based activities. We’ll also share tips for incorporating the number 5 into your child’s daily routine through counting games, fingerplays, and hands-on learning experiences. For more ideas, read our round-up of the best children’s book authors.

1. Tracing Number 5

Provide worksheets for students to trace the shape carefully. Describe proper formation as they work to reinforce technique. Optional: Trace with different colors on each attempt for added interest. Tip: Occasionally model formation for visual learners.

2. Finger Paint 5s

Set up a creative station with paint, encouraging exploring techniques like zigzags or dots. Discussing unique interpretations builds descriptive language. Displaying the dried art promotes confidence. Tip: Play music to energize the experience. Check out our guide with the best authors like Roald Dahl for kids.

3. Play Dough Fives

Distribute play dough and encourage forming the numeral through experimentation. Optional: Create a dough template as a challenge. Praising efforts maintain engagement. Tip: Consider adding glitter or other additives for tactile fun.

4. 5 Scavenger Hunt

Hide 5 items around the room and provide clues to solve riddles locating them. Coming together to share discoveries encourages collaboration. Optional: Assign point values to clues for additional competition. Tip: Adjust difficulty based on individual needs.

5. Sand Tray Writing

Demonstrate proper numeral formation before giving children their turn. Providing gentle feedback builds skills through practice. Displaying the tray shows appreciation for the learning process. Tip: Consider adding small objects like shells for counting practice.

6. 5 Collage

Cut out magazine images of the number 5 and glue them onto paper, comparing similarities and differences. Discussing other uses of 5 connects it to real-world applications. Displaying collages proudly promotes confidence. Tip: Provide themed magazines for added learning.

7. 5 Stamping

Model steady, even pressure when stamping to demonstrate the technique. Taking turns stamping encourages patience and teamwork. Displaying the stamped paper celebrates their efforts. Tip: Consider stamping on different textures like paper bags.

8. Connect the Dots

Make connections between dots to reveal hidden images, building visualization skills. Optional: Incorporate clues to find pictures for additional engagement. Praising persistence and not just speed fosters a growth mindset. Tip: Occasionally connect random dots for flexibility.

9. 5 Story Time

Relate story events to the numeric concept for deep understanding. Sequencing pictures supports comprehension and memory. Sharing favorite parts encourages participation. Tip: Act out stories for embodied learning.

A delightful children’s book that features the number 5 is Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed by Eileen Christelow. This classic story and its catchy rhyme focus on five mischievous monkeys and their bedtime antics, making it a fun and memorable way for young children to learn and count the number 5. The repetitive and rhythmic text and lively illustrations make it a favorite among preschoolers and early readers. For more, check out our round-up of the best Stan and Jan Berenstain books.

10. Chalk 5s

Demonstrate proper grip and provide feedback to build confidence. Taking turns leading encourages leadership skills. Optional: Include math problems for an added layer. Tip: Write other numerals too for extra practice.

11. 5 Memory Game

Time turns to motivate concentration skills. Cheering correct matches builds excitement. Discussing strategies aids metacognition. Tip: Occasionally clap instead of matching for an extra challenge.

Glue 5 Objects: Model arranging items systematically before gluing. Asking students to count placements reinforces one-to-one correspondence. Displaying the page proudly reinforces their capabilities. Tip: Provide tweezers for precision practice.

12. 5 Puzzle

Work through challenges step-by-step to demonstrate problem-solving. Praise creative thinking just as much as speed. Discussing strategies inspires divergent mindsets. Tip: Consider multiple difficulty levels.

13. Digital 5 Practice

Rotate use to ensure equal access. Optional: Record names on drawings to personalize the experience. Having students save and then print celebrates independence. Tip: Incorporate movement with interactive games.

14. 5 Hopscotch

Take turns throwing and encourage friendly competition. Optional: Include math problems in each space. High fives build team spirit. Tip: Consider alternative mobility accommodations.

15. Shape Search

Set a timer to motivate swift searches. Come together to analyze the results. Optional: Assign point values to encourage thoroughness. Tip: Occasionally hide shapes in unusual places.

16. Number Line Walking

Model counting accurately to the target number. Note numbers passed as reinforcement. Optional: Race to 5, then back for excitement. Tip: Consider nonlinear number lines for an extra challenge.

Download Our Number Five Worksheet

If you found this post helpful, check out our letter printables and worksheets resource.