Hang a set of number cards (at least one through 10) on a wall or bulletin board. Number cards should display the numeral, the number word and a picture of the number of objects. You can purchase these cards or make them to reinforce your classroom’s theme. When introducing numbers and number words, point to each card as the class counts to 10. Explain that each number has two forms: a number form and a word form. Spend a few minutes going through each of the number cards, naming the numbers, spelling out the words and counting the objects.
Using flashcards displaying numerals only, instruct the students to hold up how many fingers the card shows. Show a card, wait for all students to hold up their fingers, and then ask the class to name the number. After several moments of drilling numerals, switch to flashcards containing the number words. Continue the process in the same way.
Call 10 students to the front of the room and hand each one a numeral flashcard in a random order. Explain that you have mixed up the cards and that the students need to try to line up in the order in which the numbers should appear. As the class counts slowly, allow the students who are holding number cards to find their place in line. When the line is complete, count again, pointing to each card as you go along. If someone is out of place, direct that student to the proper place in line, and begin counting again from the start. Repeat the procedure using number words and a different group of students.
Before class, cut a green shower curtain into 10 lily pad shapes, approximately 12-16 inches in diameter, and write a number word on each. Place the lily pads in an open area on the classroom floor, and have the students sit around the “pond.” Call on a student, name a number and allow him to jump like a frog to the appropriate lily pad. If he's correct, have all the students celebrate by sticking out their tongues to catch juicy flies. If he's incorrect, instruct him to try again. Continue the game until every student has had a turn. If time allows, repeat the game, but this time, hold up a numeral flashcard instead of naming the number.
If a student struggles with any of the activities, direct his attention to the permanent number display, and show him how to use the cards to find the answer, whether that be simply recognizing the numeral or counting out the objects on the card.