Color-by-number pages give children repeated chances to recognize a numeral and look it up. Teach how to use the key before children begin so they can connect the number, its name, and the matching swatch.
At a glance
Choose a page that fits the numbers children know and teach the lookup step aloud.
1. Set out a small set of crayons
Match the crayons to the swatches before coloring. Mark each crayon with its number if distinguishing colors or choosing the right tool takes extra effort.
2. Find one numeral in the picture
Ask a child to point to a number and say or match it. Compare look-alikes such as 6 and 9 using an orientation cue.
3. Match the number to the key
Follow the row or point to the matching entry. Choose the color and mark one area before searching for another.
4. Look for more copies of the numeral
Invite children to find two areas with the same numeral. Color one or mark each with a small dot to keep track.
5. Check recognition away from the picture
Show a few numerals on cards at the end. Note which children can identify with and without the color key.
A classroom example
In a fictional kindergarten group, Remy finds the 8 in the picture but looks up 6 on the key. The teacher has him place a counter beside the printed 8 in both places. He checks the match and chooses the right color.
Companion printable
The 17-page PDF includes twelve pictures across number ranges from 1 to 20, plus three teacher reference pages with completed examples.
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