Numberblocks

Lore & Background

Numberblocks follows the adventures of sentient, colourful block characters in Numberland, each representing and named after a number, and made up of the equivalent number of blocks. A black floating number, called a Numberling, appears above their heads to show their value. When one block hops on top of another, they combine into a different character to make a new number. Many of the numbers have styles and personalities associated with their numbers, such as One being brave and independent, Four loving squares, Seven being rainbow-coloured and lucky, Eight having octopus-like tentacles, and Eleven loving football.

The show helps toddlers and young kids learn numeracy skills, especially how to count and do simple maths. Integer concepts such as even and odd numbers, and factoring are discussed and explored. More sophisticated ideas are also explored in later episodes such as comparison, square numbers, triangular numbers (known as 'Step Squads'), and counting using binary numbers.

Kay Benbow of BBC Studios commissioned Numberblocks as an animated series for children aged 3–6 to be developed by Essex production company Blue Zoo. The production was made in partnership with the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) to complement the Alphablocks series. Created by Joe Elliot, the series was made to give children a deep understanding of how numbers work. Elliot wanted to visually show the concepts of maths in a way no other number series had.

Reader's Guide

Numberblocks has become a significant educational tool for preschoolers, helping them learn numeracy skills through engaging animated characters. The show's approach to visually demonstrating mathematical concepts, from basic counting to binary numbers, has been recognized with a BAFTA nomination in the 'Learning' category in 2017. Its partnership with the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics underscores its educational credibility. The series has expanded into various media, including an official magazine launched in September 2021, MathLink Cubes activity sets, and plush toys. Learning Resources secured a global master licensing deal in November 2021, planning further merchandise such as playsets, video games, and classroom items. The show's longevity is evidenced by multiple series and specials produced through 2026, indicating sustained relevance in early childhood education.

Did You Know?

• The show was nominated for a BAFTA Children's Award in the 'Learning – Primary' category in 2018.
• The character Four loves squares because he is a square number.
• Learning Resources secured a global master licensing deal for Numberblocks in November 2021.