Use this number train printable with a variety of math activities for preschoolers. It’s a simple printable that you can use in multiple ways with your students.
Get your own copy of the train number cards at the bottom of this post. It’s very easy to prep, so you’ll be able to incorporate it into your preschool plans almost right away!
You can use the train calendar numbers in conjunction with a train theme, a transportation theme, or after reading a well-loved book like Steam Train, Dream Train. Or you can use the printable numbers just because you have some train fans in your class! You don’t even need a specific reason.
Related: Free Preschool Printables
I love using number cards like these with the kids because the learning possibilities are almost endless. The images engage the kids, keeping them interested in what we’re exploring.
Now, let’s take a look at how you can prep and use the train number cards.
Table of Contents
Number Train Printable
Below, I’m going to share how we’ve used the train calendar numbers. Keep in mind that you can come up with your own ideas, too. Don’t let me hold you back!
How to Prep the Train Calendar Numbers
First, gather your materials. Here are some items you might want:
- Printer
- Scissors or paper cutter
- Laminator
- Toy trains
- Other train manipulatives
Once you have the supplies you need, it’s time to get things prepped:
- Get your free copy of the number train printable at the bottom of this post.
- Print the number cards.
- Cut the pages into individual numbers.
- Laminate the cards for durability.
Then it’s time to invite the children over!
How to Use the Number Train Printable
As I said earlier, you can use the printable in so many different ways! Why not start off by making a number train from 0 to 35? Depending on the ages and needs of your students, the train can be shorter, too (maybe from 0 to 10).
Or set up a memory matching card game with the number cards. The kids really enjoy these simple matching games. Be sure that there are two of each number. We started out just using one through ten. Place the cards face down. Let the kids alternate turning over two cards at a time to see if they can match the numbers.
Related: Transportation Math Activities
Here are even more ways you can use the train number cards:
- Kids can use the cards to work on counting backwards.
- Play a skip-counting game using the cards, whether it’s by twos, threes, or fives.
- Grab some toy trains to go along with the number cards. Kiddos can work together to match the correct amount of trains to each numeral.
- Use the cards as part of your traditional or linear calendar.
- Focus on the images and make patterns.
- Pair the numbers with a simple sensory tray. The kids can use the cards as visual cues as they practice writing numbers.
Related: Fall Calendar Numbers
How would you and your students use the number train printable cards?
What are the Kids Learning?
The number train printable cards help children practice so many early math skills. Here are some of the concepts you can use the numbers for:
- Number identification
- Counting
- One-to-one correspondence
- Numerical order
- Patterns
- Turn taking
- Number formation
Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive! You can definitely incorporate the number train printable cards for even more math activities!
More Train Activities for Kids
Pop on over and check out some more train-themed activities:
- Train Snack for Kids
- Egg Carton Steam Train Craft
- Steam Train Busy Bag
- Train Color Sorting Activity
- Shape Train Activity
- Train Pretend Play
- Learning Numbers with Wooden Train Tracks
Preschool Transportation Resources
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Free Printable Train Number Cards
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Originally written December 2015. Updated with a new printable and images.
Oh these are great! My son would love them!
Thanks, George! 🙂
These are irresistibly fun!
Thanks, Devany! The kids always seem to enjoy number cards in my classroom!