The first three counting numbers are 1, 2, and 3. These are the numbers that are used to count the number of objects in a group or set.

Examples:

• If you have three apples, you can count them using the first three counting numbers: 1 apple, 2 apples, 3 apples.
• If you have six coins, you can count them using the first three counting numbers: 1 coin, 2 coins, 3 coins, 1 coin, 2 coins, 3 coins.
• If you have a deck of cards, you can count them using the first three counting numbers: 1 card, 2 cards, 3 cards, 4 cards, 5 cards, 6 cards, and so on.

In each of these examples, the first three counting numbers are used to count the number of objects in a group. These numbers are essential for understanding and solving mathematical problems, and are the foundation for more advanced concepts in mathematics.