Build a Number City

Help your child explore numbers and quantities through creative, hands-on construction play.

In this activity, children choose a numeral on the mat before building a tower containing the matching number of blocks. As more towers are added, the different heights create a colourful number city.

Counting and building helps children understand that every numeral represents a specific quantity. The activity also develops careful counting, number recognition, fine motor control, problem-solving and creativity while encouraging children to remain focused on a task.

The included demonstration video shows you how to introduce the activity and adapt it as your child’s confidence develops.

Make it easier

Begin with numbers 1–5 and use larger building materials, such as blocks or stacking cups. Help your child count each item carefully as they construct their tower.

Encourage them to touch or move each block while counting to ensure every item is counted once.

Make it harder

Progress to numbers 6–10 and then introduce the extension mats containing numbers up to 20.

Encourage your child to recognise the numeral, collect the correct quantity of blocks and check the completed tower independently.

For an additional challenge, introduce a gentle timer and see how many accurate towers your child can construct within the chosen time.

Skills supported

• Recognising numerals
• Matching numerals to quantities
• Careful and accurate counting
• One-to-one correspondence
• Number sense
• Fine motor strength and coordination
• Hand-eye coordination
• Planning and problem-solving
• Creativity and imaginative play
• Concentration and perseverance

What you’ll receive

• Five printable Build a Number City activity mats
• Activities covering numbers 1–20
• Mats containing different numeral arrangements and difficulty levels
• A step-by-step demonstration video
• Ideas for making the activity easier or more challenging

What you’ll need

• Printed activity mats
• Small building materials, such as blocks, interlocking bricks, buttons or stacking objects
• A clear surface for building

Recommended for: Children approximately 3½–6 years old

Format: Five printable PDF activity mats with online video access

Please note: This is a digital product. No physical item will be posted. Adult supervision is required when using small objects or building materials.