Learn Arabic numbers for kids

Have you ever wondered how a child sees a world of numbers that looks completely different from what they see at school?

Learning Arabic numbers for non native speakers is not just a math lesson. It is an enjoyable learning journey that opens the door to a new language and culture.

Learning Arabic numbers is like solving a small puzzle. Each number changes from a strange or silent shape into a clear sound with a friendly rhythm that is easy to repeat and remember. Step by step, the child builds confidence and feels proud every time they can say a new number or write it correctly.

In this article, we will explore together how to turn learning Arabic numbers from a boring school task into a fun daily activity full of play and discovery. This joyful approach helps children learn happily and move forward with confidence.

Why Teaching Arabic Numbers Is Important

At first, teaching Arabic numbers did not seem urgent. Like many parents, I believed it could wait until later. But with time, I noticed that numbers in Arabic appear naturally in my children’s daily experiences, not only in school lessons. They come up during prayer, in short stories, on signs, and in simple routines at home.

Once I began teaching them, it became clear that this step supports children in more ways than I expected.

Builds Strong Math Foundations

Learning to count in Arabic helps children feel comfortable with numbers from an early age. This familiarity makes later math concepts, such as basic calculations, easier to understand.

Supports Arabic Language Development

Numbers introduce children to Arabic sounds in a clear and repeated way. By hearing and saying numbers often, children improve pronunciation and grow more confident using Arabic words.

Connects Children to Faith and Culture

Arabic numbers are closely tied to Islamic life. They appear in Quranic verses and daily acts of worship, helping children feel connected to their faith and cultural background in a natural way.

Improves Memory and Logical Thinking

Counting and ordering numbers help children develop focus and memory. These activities also encourage children to notice patterns and understand sequence.

Builds Confidence Through Progress

Each number a child learns becomes a small success. These moments help children feel capable and encourage them to continue learning Arabic with interest.

Makes Reading and Writing Arabic Easier

Understanding Arabic numbers helps children recognize them in books and learning materials, making early reading and writing less challenging.

To support your child on this path without pressure, My Arabic Numbers by Manarah Publishing offers a gentle and engaging way to learn that blends language, faith, and everyday life.

Arabic numerals (١٢٣) vs. Western numerals (123)

 For some children, numbers already feel challenging, especially if they do not enjoy math. That is why it helps to introduce Arabic numbers as a simple visual game, not as something to memorize or calculate.

You can explain to your child that numbers have two different looks. One look is familiar, like 1, 2, and 3. The other is how the same numbers appear in Arabic: ١، ٢، ٣. They mean the same thing. Only the shapes change.

To make things even simpler, you can use this table as a quick reference to help your child visualize the connection between both sets of numbers:

Western	Arabic	Pronunciation
1	١	wāḥid
2	٢	ithnān
3	٣	thalātha
4	٤	arba‘a
5	٥	khamsa
6	٦	sitta
7	٧	sab‘a
8	٨	thamāniya
9	٩	tis‘a
10	١٠	‘ashara

Remember, the key is to keep it light and playful. You don’t need to rush the process; even noticing a single number on a page is a win! Try turning it into a 'scavenger hunt' around the house or in books. With a little bit of consistency and plenty of high-fives, those new shapes will soon feel just as familiar as the numbers they see at school.

Numbers 1–10 in Arabic (واحد – عشرة)

The first step in learning Arabic numbers does not need to feel heavy or academic. Starting with numbers from 1 to 10 allows children to become familiar with Arabic sounds and shapes in a calm and enjoyable way.

 

At this stage, the goal is not speed or memorization, but comfort and curiosity. Children learn best when numbers are connected to things they already see and touch every day.

 

You can support this stage by:

• linking each number to a real object your child recognizes
• using short daily moments for counting, such as fingers, toys, or food
• introducing numbers through rhythm, movement, or simple cards
• focusing on how the number sounds before practicing how it is written
• connecting numbers to real life, such as family members, days, or ages
  
  

The table below helps children see how each number looks in Arabic, how it is pronounced, and how it appears in everyday examples.

 

Arabic	Pronunciation	Number in Arabic	examples
١	wāḥid	واحد	1 sun
٢	ithnān	اثنان	2 apples
٣	thalātha	ثلاثة	3 books
٤	arba‘a	أربعة	4 chairs
٥	khamsa	خمسة	5 fingers
٦	sitta	شتة	6 toys
٧	sab‘a	سابعة	7 days
٨	thamāniya	ثمانية	8 birds
٩	tis‘a	تسعة	9 balls
١٠	‘ashara	عشرة	10 fingers

 

To help children become comfortable with both the sound and shape of Arabic numbers, the Arabic Number Education book from Manarah Publishing offers guided activities designed especially for young learners, turning practice into an enjoyable daily routine rather than a challenge.

Recognizing patterns in Arabic numerals

To teach your child the correct way to write Arabic numerals, use simple methods. For example, the numbers ( ٢ -٣) are similar in shape, while  (٧- ٨) are mirror images of each other. Such cues help your child learn and remember easily.

You can also teach your kids to write numbers correctly by using colors and drawings. There are books specifically designed for this purpose, which make it easier for you and your child.

Interactive Books That Children Actually Enjoy

Not every child enjoys sitting down to “learn numbers.” Some children need movement, others need sound, and many need a sense of progress to stay interested. That is why the right interactive book feels less like a workbook and more like a shared experience.

A good Arabic numbers book invites children to explore rather than instructs them to memorize. Instead of overwhelming the child, it guides them step by step through small moments of success.

When choosing an interactive book, look for one that:

• introduces numbers through familiar scenes from a child’s world
• allows children to follow shapes with their hands before holding a pencil
• encourages listening and repeating before asking for writing
• offers gentle feedback that makes children feel proud, not tested
• moves forward slowly, giving each number its own space and time
  
  

When learning feels calm and personal, children are more likely to return to it willingly. Over time, numbers stop feeling difficult and become part of a child’s daily rhythm.

With the right book, learning Arabic numbers becomes a shared moment between parent and child, filled with curiosity rather than pressure.

Different ways to speak arabic numbers

Arabic numbers are not always spoken in the same way. How a number sounds can change depending on where it is used and who is speaking. Helping children notice these differences makes numbers feel natural rather than confusing.

Classical Arabic

This is the form children hear in school lessons, books, and Quran recitation. Numbers are pronounced clearly and fully.
For example:

• 2 is said as ithnān
• 3 is said as thalātha

Spoken Arabic (Dialects)

In daily conversations, numbers often sound lighter and shorter. People simplify words without thinking about it.
For example:

• 2 may be said as itnain instead of ithnān

Numbers in Counting vs. Sentences

Numbers can sound slightly different when they are used alone compared to when they describe objects or situations. Children often notice this naturally while listening and speaking.

By showing children these differences step by step, they learn not only how to count, but also how to use numbers comfortably in real life conversations.

Counting rak’ahs (ركعات) in prayer

 Parents can support their children in learning Arabic numbers by linking them to daily prayer. Each prayer includes a fixed number of rak‘ahs, and this repetition helps children remember numbers naturally, without feeling that they are studying.

Daily Prayers and Their Rak‘ahs

• Fajr: 2 rak‘ahs
• Zuhr: 4 rak‘ahs
• Asr: 4 rak‘ahs
• Maghrib: 3 rak‘ahs
• Isha: 4 rak‘ahs

Through this simple connection, children practice counting in Arabic while building a stronger relationship with their daily worship.

How to write arabic numbers

I had difficulty teaching my kids how to write numbers in Arabic, because Arabic is written from right to left, while numbers are written from left to right, like in English.

But how did I overcome this problem to teach my kids how to write numbers in Arabic? Here is the answer:

Tips for teaching kids to write Arabic numbers:

 

• I used large, clear fonts to write the numbers, making it easier for kids to follow.
• I used colored pens to make learning more fun.
• Kids can be encouraged to say the number aloud while writing it to connect the pronunciation with the shape. 

With continuous practice, kids will quickly learn to write Arabic numbers confidently and clearly.  For a fun and smooth learning journey, you can explore the “ My Arabic Numbers” series by Manarah Publishing, which offers engaging activities to support kids every step of the way.

My Arabic Numbers 

When teaching your kids to write Arabic numbers correctly, you should use the Arabic Numbers book from Manarah Publishing. This book is specially designed for kids and teaches them to write and memorize numbers step by step.

This book helps kids recognize numbers through familiar examples from everyday life, such as counting food, family members, or objects found in the mosque, making learning practical and easy to relate to daily life.

The book also develops early writing skills through tracing and practice activities, and links numbers to Quranic and Islamic contexts such as the 99 names of Allah and the seven heavens.

This book is part of the Noor Arabic series, trusted by schools and families around the world, offering a fun and age-appropriate approach to faith for kids. It is ideal for ages 4-8, as it combines the fun of learning numbers with the reinforcement of Islamic values. Get it now to start an enjoyable and rewarding learning journey.

FAQs

How do I teach my child Arabic numbers?

You do not need a fixed plan or long lessons. Start by letting Arabic numbers appear naturally during the day. Say them while playing, setting the table, or preparing for prayer. Focus on one or two numbers at a time and allow your child to get comfortable before moving on. When learning feels light, children are more open and engaged.

Are Arabic numbers different from English numbers?

Yes, they look different, but children usually accept this very easily. Just like words change from one language to another, numbers can change their shape too. Once children understand that the meaning stays the same, they move between Arabic and English numbers with confidence.

How can Islamic practices help kids learn Arabic numbers?

Islamic routines already include repetition, which helps learning happen naturally. When children count rak‘ahs, tasbeeh, or hear numbers mentioned in stories, they absorb them without pressure. These moments quietly reinforce numbers while strengthening their connection to worship.

What is the easiest way to teach counting in Arabic?

The easiest way is to avoid turning counting into a task. Short, relaxed moments work better than formal lessons. Use real life situations and gentle repetition, and allow learning to grow slowly. When numbers feel meaningful, children remember them more easily.