A Hands-On Activity for Teaching Addition to 20

Looking for an engaging way to help students master addition to 20? This hands-on activity is the perfect tool to build number sense and confidence in young learners. Whether used during math centers, small group instruction, or independent practice, this resource allows students to explore and represent addition in a concrete, meaningful way.

Students start by choosing a number card (up to 20), then use manipulatives—such as counters, linking cubes, or other classroom tools—to build that total in two parts. For example, if a student picks the number 8, they might first model 5 + 3, then rearrange their counters to show 4 + 4. Students are encouraged to keep rearranging the parts to find all the different combinations that make the same whole.

As students explore addition combinations, they can also write matching number sentences to connect concrete models with symbolic notation. This hands-on addition activity supports part-part-whole understanding, fact fluency, and mental math skills—all essential for success with addition to 20.

Why This Resource Works for Early Learners

Teaching addition to 5, 10, or 20 requires more than just repetition—it requires meaningful, hands-on experiences that help students see how numbers work. This activity gives students the opportunity to:

• Discover all the ways to make a number using real objects
• Strengthen their understanding of addition through movement and manipulation
• Practice math vocabulary and build fluency with number sentences
• Gain confidence by working at their own pace in a low-pressure format

It’s a must-have resource for any teacher working on addition to 20 in kindergarten or first grade.

Low-Prep and Easy to Use

This addition to 20 hands-on activity is classroom-ready in just minutes. Download your choice of PDF or editable Google Slides using the dropdown on the Download button.

Print on cardstock for durability, and store pieces in a folder, ziplock bag, or envelope to make cleanup and reuse easy. Whether you’re using it for guided math, interventions, or fast finishers, it’s a flexible, teacher-friendly resource you’ll return to again and again.

This resource was created by Kendal Britnell, a teacher in Colorado and a Teach Starter collaborator.

More Addition to 20 Activities for Your Classroom

Teaching the foundational skills of adding to 20 doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some more of our favorites when it comes to early years addition.

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