What is the relation between counting and early number sense?

The connection between counting and early number sense is significant, as counting practices help develop children's understanding of numbers and their relationships. Engaging in counting activities enhances children's ability to recognize numerical patterns, understand quantities, and manipulate numbers in various contexts. This foundational skill lays the groundwork for more complex mathematical concepts, as children learn to associate numbers with specific amounts and begin to grasp the idea of one-to-one correspondence.

Through regular counting experiences, children also develop a sense of the sequence of numbers and the concept of "more" and "less," which are essential for problem-solving and basic arithmetic. Thus, the practice of counting is not just a mechanical task, but a vital cognitive skill that promotes early mathematical understanding and fluency.