Build a Bear Number Sense: Fun Math Activity for Kids!
Boost number recognition and math skills with this printable Build a Bear matching game! Numbers 1-20.
Number sense is a crucial skill that sets the stage for understanding more complex mathematical concepts down the line. And what better way to make learning fun than with a playful, hands-on activity?
The Build a Bear Number Match Printable is a creative and engaging way to help your little ones practice counting, matching numbers, and recognizing numbers in various forms.
From bees to watermelon seeds, this activity is designed to keep kids entertained while helping them develop their number sense!
Whether your kids are just starting with numbers or ready to tackle double-digit numbers, this printable is perfect for a range of learning levels.
Number sense is the foundation of understanding how numbers work, including recognizing them in different forms (like tally marks, pictures, or tens frames) and grasping their relationships. A solid number sense helps children build the confidence they need to tackle more advanced math concepts, from addition and subtraction to algebra and beyond.
How Does the Build a Bear Number Match Work?
This printable is designed to help kids practice matching numbers with different visual representations. Instead of simply writing down numbers, the activity includes colorful and engaging images to represent those numbers in a variety of ways.
Your kids will build the number bears by counting the bees, watermelon seeds, fingers on a hand, dots on a hot cocoa tens frame, toothbrush and carrot shaped tally marks and more!

What’s Included?
The Build a Bear Number Match printable features a set of bear pieces for numbers 1 through 20, making it an ideal activity for both beginners and kids who are ready for more of a challenge. The bear pieces are filled with bright and colorful images that correspond to each number.
This fun variety ensures that your little ones stay engaged while practicing counting, number recognition, and understanding how numbers can look in different forms.
To purchase the Build a Bear Number Match, click HERE.
How to Prepare the Activity
Prepping the Build a Bear Number Match Printable is simple:
- Print out the bear pieces
- Use cardstock or laminate: For durability, consider printing the pieces on cardstock or laminating them. This will ensure they last through multiple uses and can stand up to wear and tear.
- Cut out the pieces: After printing, cut out the individual bear pieces.
Once the pieces are prepped, you’re ready to start playing and learning!
How to Play
Let your kids match number arms and legs to the number on the bear. You can start with a smaller group of numbers (for example, numbers 1-5) and gradually work your way up to higher numbers (up to 20).
This allows the activity to grow with your kids’ skills. You may also choose to start with fewer pieces if your kids are beginners and work your way toward a full set of 20 as their confidence builds.
Tips for Success
- Go at your kids’ pace: Depending on their level, you may choose to introduce just a few numbers at a time. For beginners, it’s okay to start small and gradually increase the challenge.
- Incorporate hands-on elements: You can even try adding some small objects (like buttons or blocks) for them to count out as they match the numbers.
- Individual practice or a group activity: Turn it into a fun group activity. Working together to match all the bear pieces can help improve social and cooperative skills as well as reinforce learning.
The Build a Bear Number Match printable is an engaging activity to help your kids build their number sense in a fun, interactive way. It’s a fun resource for teachers, parents, and caregivers alike, offering a creative twist on counting and number recognition exercises.
Plus, the colorful bear pieces and diverse number representations will keep your kids excited to practice, making math something they look forward to!
So why not bring some fun to your kids’ learning today? Print out your number bear pieces, grab some scissors, and start building those number skills – one bear at a time! Happy learning!
This set is also available for purchase in the Frogs and Fairies Teachers Pay Teachers Store.
More Build a Bear Fun!
If your kids love the Build a Bear Number Match, then get ready for even more fun! We have a whole series of Build a Bear activities designed to make learning engaging and enjoyable. Explore shapes, colors, and more with these adorable printables:
Build a Bear Addition & Subtraction Match
♥ Pin it:












Love this activity, my Little’s will love building a bear while practicing counting and number recognition. Thank you
Thank you so much, Susan! 🙂
se poate plati cu cardul ? sau de pe telefon ? multumesc
Hi! Yes, we added this option and you can pay with credit card now. On the checkout page, you can choose either Paypal or Credit card payment option. In case you’re having problems, I also have a Teachers Pay Teachers shop and they accept credit cards as well. Thank you!
Below is the Google Translate version. I hope this helps 🙂
Bună! Da, am adăugat această opțiune și puteți plăti cu cardul de credit acum. Pe pagina de plată puteți alege fie opțiunea de plată Paypal, fie plata prin card de credit. În cazul în care aveți probleme, am și un magazin Teachers Pay Teachers și acceptă și carduri de credit. Mulțumesc!
Hey there, I purchased the bundle a with the fish bowl and flower and bear counting. But I am now unable to download the bear bundle saying I have reached my downloads. Can you please help?
Hi!
Thank you for your order. I increased your downloads. I suggest you download the files to your computer to avoid this problem. If you need any more help, please let me know!
Best regards, Sandra
Hello! I just purchased the Number Match Bundle and have yet to receive anything via email or see a download link. I see in other comments that others have had the same issues and have checked all of my folders including Spam but have been charged on my credit card and received my receipt for that. Can you please email me a link for this. I am really excited to use this with my kiddos!
Thank you!
Janelle
Hi Janelle, I’m sorry you’re having troubles. I’ve just sent you an email with your links.
Best regards,
Sandra