Valentines Day Counting – Number Matching Activity for Preschoolers

Are you looking for a fun, hands-on Valetine counting activity for preschool, pre-k, and kindergarten age students? This free printable number matching game is perfect for practicing numbers to 10 in February! Simply download and print the valentine math for preschoolers!

Valentine Counting

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to sprinkle a little extra love (and learning!) into your classroom activities. A Valentine’s Day number match activity is just the thing to keep students engaged while reinforcing essential number recognition and counting skills. In this fun and festive game, students match a numeral to the corresponding number of candy hearts in a jar. It’s hands-on, visually engaging, and a great way to bring the Valentine’s spirit into your math lessons!

Plus don’t miss heart shape worksheet pack, free february coloring pages

free valentine math printables

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Why Number Match Activities Are Perfect for Primary Students

Number match activities are excellent tools for developing foundational math skills. Here’s why they work so well:

• Engagement: A Valentine’s Day theme keeps students excited and motivated to participate.
• Number recognition: Matching numerals with quantities helps students solidify their understanding of numbers.
• Counting practice: Students strengthen their one-to-one correspondence skills as they count the hearts in the jars.
• Visual learning: Bright, colorful visuals help students make connections between numbers and quantities.

This activity provides a meaningful way to combine fun with learning while fostering a love for math in your youngest learners.

Number Matching Game

Getting this activity ready is as easy as 1-2-3! 

• Print the cards: Each card features a jar of candy hearts with a specific quantity and matching numeral cards. Use cardstock to make the cards sturdy and durable. 
• Laminate for durability: Laminating the cards ensures they’ll withstand multiple uses and makes them easy to wipe clean.
• Cut out the pieces: Trim the jars and numeral cards so students can mix and match them. 
• Set up the activity: Arrange the cards in a small bin, basket, or tray for easy access. Students can work individually or in pairs to match the numbers with the jars.
• Optional self-checking: : Add small dots or stickers to the backs of the cards so students can check their answers after they’ve completed the activity.

Ways to Use Valentine’s Day Number Match in the Classroom

This activity is versatile and can fit into various parts of your day. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your classroom:

1. Math Centers

Add the number match cards to a Valentine’s-themed math center. Pair them with manipulatives like mini candy hearts or pom-poms for added counting fun. Students can match the numbers, count the hearts, and even use the manipulatives to represent the quantities for extra practice.

2. Small Group Instruction

Use the cards during small group time to support students who are still developing number recognition and counting skills. Sit with a group and guide them through the activity, asking questions like, “How many hearts do you see in the jar?” or “What number matches this jar?”

3. Independent Practice

For students who are ready, this activity works well as an independent practice task. Set up the cards at a station or on a table, and let students work at their own pace to complete the matches.

4. Holiday Party Game

Turn the activity into a fun Valentine’s Day game! Scatter the cards around the room and have students go on a “matching hunt.” They can find the jars and numbers and pair them up as they go.

5. Early Finisher Task

Keep a set of cards handy for students who finish their work early. They can quietly practice matching numbers and quantities, keeping their minds engaged and on-task.

6. Homework or Take-Home Activity

Send the cards home with students for extra practice. Include simple instructions for parents, encouraging them to play along by asking their child to count the hearts in each jar and match them to the correct number.

Extend the Learning

Want to make this activity even more engaging? Try these ideas:

• Create a matching race: Divide students into small groups and see which team can match all the cards the fastest.
• Incorporate writing: After matching the cards, have students write the number and draw the matching number of hearts in their math journals.
• Add a sensory element: Set up a sensory bin with small candy heart erasers or beads. Students can pull a number card and then count out the correct number of hearts to match.

Valentine’s Day number match activities are a sweet addition to any primary classroom. Whether used during math centers, small group instruction, or holiday celebrations, this hands-on game is sure to delight your students while reinforcing their number skills. With candy hearts, jars, and a little holiday magic, math practice has never been so fun! 💕