Number 3 (Three) for Kids: Counting, Writing and Fun Facts
3 is written in words as three. It means a group of 3 things, like three sides on a triangle. In counting, 3 comes after 2 (two) and before 4 (four). 3 is an odd number.
The number 3, written as "Three"
Number 3 at a Glance
| Number word | three |
|---|---|
| Comes after | 2 (two) |
| Comes before | 4 (four) |
| Odd or even | Odd |
| More needed to make 10 | 7 |
What 3 Looks Like
A ten frame has 10 boxes. Here, 3 of them are filled, so you can see that 3 needs 7 more to make 10.
Counting to 3
Count out loud and touch one object for each number you say: 1, 2, 3. The last number you say, 3, tells you how many there are altogether.
How to Write the Number 3
- Start near the top on the left.
- Curve around to the right and back in to the middle.
- Curve around to the right again and back to the bottom left.
The word is spelled T-H-R-E-E. Practice tracing 3 in the tracing game or on the Number Writing Practice worksheet.
Ways to Make 3
Two smaller numbers can be put together to make 3. These are called number bonds:
- 3 + 0 = 3
- 2 + 1 = 3
Try it with real objects: put 3 blocks in a row and split them into two groups in different ways.
Three in Real Life
- Three sides on a triangle
- Three wheels on a tricycle
- Three lights on a traffic light: red, yellow and green
Fun Facts About 3
- A triangle is the shape with 3 straight sides and 3 corners.
- Three is an odd number.
- Many stories use threes, like The Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
Quick Quiz: Number 3
Answer each question, then tap it to check.
What number comes right after 3?
4 (four).
Is 3 odd or even?
Odd. If you split 3 into pairs, one is left over.
If you have 3, how many more do you need to make 10?
7, because 3 + 7 = 10.
🏫 Classroom Activity
Build towers of three blocks together, knocking each one down and rebuilding while counting "one, two, three!" Then look for triangles around the room, counting their three sides and three corners together.
🏠 Homeschool Activity
Set the table with three plates, three cups, and three napkins for a pretend tea party, counting each group of three as you go. It's a fun way to repeat the number in several contexts in one activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you spell the number 3?
3 is spelled three.
Is 3 an odd or even number?
3 is odd. If you split 3 into pairs, one is left over.
What comes before and after 3?
2 comes before 3, and 4 comes after it.
How do you write the number 3?
Start near the top on the left. Curve around to the right and back in to the middle. Curve around to the right again and back to the bottom left.
What numbers add up to 3?
Pairs of numbers that make 3 are 3 + 0, 2 + 1.
Summary
3 is spelled three and is an odd number. It comes after 2 and before 4. Next, learn the number 4.