Counting Stairs One Step at a Time
Count each step as you and your toddler go up or down the stairs together. A natural, everyday activity that turns routine into a counting game.
What You'll Need
- 1A staircase (indoor or outdoor)
What You'll Need
A staircase — indoor or outdoor, any height
How to Play
Stand at the bottom of the stairs with your toddler. Hold their hand securely.
Step onto the first stair together. Say "One!" clearly as you step up.
Take the next step. "Two!" Keep your voice rhythmic and predictable.
Count every step all the way to the top. Most staircases have 12-14 steps.
At the top: "We counted all the way to twelve!"
Count again on the way down. Descending feels different and sounds different.
Do this every time you use the stairs. Within a week, your toddler will join in.
Why It Works
This is one-to-one correspondence in its most natural form — one step, one number word. Your toddler's body is moving in rhythm with the counting, which creates a physical anchor for each number. It's also completely embedded in daily life, which means you'll do it multiple times a day without any setup. That frequency is what builds real fluency with number words.
Tips
Always hold your toddler's hand on stairs. Safety first, counting second.
Start counting at "one" every time, even though you'll count higher numbers at the top. Consistent starting point matters.
If your toddler says a wrong number, just say the right one naturally and keep going. Don't correct — model.
Try counting the stairs in a whisper voice, a robot voice, or a silly voice to keep the game fresh.
No stairs? Count steps on a sidewalk, tiles on a floor, or stepping stones in a garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 5 min, with 0 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: a staircase (indoor or outdoor).
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-2 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors or outdoors?
This activity works great both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility based on the weather or your space.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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