Number 4 (Four) for Kids: Counting, Writing and Fun Facts
4 is written in words as four. It means a group of 4 things, like four legs on a dog, cat or chair. In counting, 4 comes after 3 (three) and before 5 (five). 4 is an even number.
The number 4, written as "Four"
Number 4 at a Glance
| Number word | four |
|---|---|
| Comes after | 3 (three) |
| Comes before | 5 (five) |
| Odd or even | Even |
| More needed to make 10 | 6 |
What 4 Looks Like
A ten frame has 10 boxes. Here, 4 of them are filled, so you can see that 4 needs 6 more to make 10.
Counting to 4
Count out loud and touch one object for each number you say: 1, 2, 3, 4. The last number you say, 4, tells you how many there are altogether.
How to Write the Number 4
- Start at the top. Draw a straight line down to the middle.
- Draw a line across to the right.
- Lift your pencil. Start at the top on the right and draw a long straight line down, crossing the line you just made.
The word is spelled F-O-U-R. Practice tracing 4 in the tracing game or on the Number Writing Practice worksheet.
Ways to Make 4
Two smaller numbers can be put together to make 4. These are called number bonds:
- 4 + 0 = 4
- 3 + 1 = 4
- 2 + 2 = 4
Try it with real objects: put 4 blocks in a row and split them into two groups in different ways.
Four in Real Life
- Four legs on a dog, cat or chair
- Four wheels on a car
- Four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter
Fun Facts About 4
- A square and a rectangle both have 4 sides and 4 corners.
- Four is an even number: 2 + 2 = 4.
- Many animals walk on four legs.
Quick Quiz: Number 4
Answer each question, then tap it to check.
What number comes right after 4?
5 (five).
Is 4 odd or even?
Even. 4 can be split into two equal groups of 2.
If you have 4, how many more do you need to make 10?
6, because 4 + 6 = 10.
🏫 Classroom Activity
Count the legs on classroom chairs or tables together, touching each one while counting "one, two, three, four!" Then draw a square on the board and count its four sides and four corners as a class.
🏠 Homeschool Activity
Look for four-legged pets or animals in picture books together, counting each leg out loud. If you have a pet at home, counting its legs in person makes it even more memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you spell the number 4?
4 is spelled four.
Is 4 an odd or even number?
4 is even. 4 can be split into two equal groups of 2.
What comes before and after 4?
3 comes before 4, and 5 comes after it.
How do you write the number 4?
Start at the top. Draw a straight line down to the middle. Draw a line across to the right. Lift your pencil. Start at the top on the right and draw a long straight line down, crossing the line you just made.
What numbers add up to 4?
Pairs of numbers that make 4 are 4 + 0, 3 + 1, 2 + 2.
Summary
4 is spelled four and is an even number. It comes after 3 and before 5. Next, learn the number 5.