Number Bonds to 5, 10 and 20

Number bonds are pairs of numbers that add together to make a specific total. In Year 1, children learn number bonds to 5 (such as 2 + 3), to 10 (such as 4 + 6), and eventually to 20 (such as 13 + 7).

Understanding number bonds is one of the most important building blocks in primary maths. Rather than counting on fingers every time, children who know their number bonds can recall them instantly -- much like knowing their name. This fluency frees up brainpower for harder problems later on.

Children start by exploring bonds to 5 using physical objects like counters or blocks, then progress to 10 and 20. They also learn to spot the pattern: if 3 + 7 = 10, then 7 + 3 = 10 too. Teachers often use part-whole models, ten frames and bar models to make these relationships visual and concrete.

Number bonds are the foundation for mental arithmetic. A child who instantly knows that 6 + 4 = 10 can tackle 46 + 4, 60 + 40, and eventually column addition with far greater confidence.

They also underpin subtraction -- if your child knows that 3 + 7 = 10, they can quickly work out that 10 - 7 = 3. Schools call this the "inverse relationship" and it is tested throughout KS1 and KS2. The sooner number bonds become automatic, the smoother everything else flows.

1. 1

   Start with bonds to 5 using real objects -- five grapes on a plate, split them into two groups and count each side.

2. 2

   Play 'Make 10' card games: turn over two cards and see if they add to 10.

3. 3

   Practise in the car or at bedtime: 'I say 3, you say the number that makes 10.'

4. 4

   Use a ten frame (a 2x5 grid) with counters so your child can see how many spaces are empty.

5. 5

   Once bonds to 10 are solid, show how they extend: 'If 6 + 4 = 10, what is 16 + 4?'

6. 6

   Keep practice short and positive -- five minutes of daily practice beats a long weekend session.