Why Is Maths Important in Early Years?
Let’s add up our thoughts and not divide opinion, as we look at how maths forms a vital foundation for a wonderful early-learning experience.
We would never imagine our kids running before they can walk, so we can’t expect algebra before addition. This is where early maths comes in. Through natural play and curiosity, early maths is about providing our little learners with the building blocks required to develop an inquisitive, analytical and healthy way of thinking about the world around them.
Jaques of London takes this quite literally.
From sensory building blocks to our add-ictive numbers games, the entire teacher-developed Let’s Learn toy range is built with playful experimentation in mind. This approach allows children to develop a natural understanding of how numerics are involved in so much of what they see and do. In doing so, they’ll learn concepts such as:
- Near & Far
- High & Low
- Tall & Short
- Heavy & Light
- Fast & Slow
- First & Last
- Big & Small
- Right & Wrong
As you can see, Early maths forms the foundations for a non-stop adventure of discovery.
How Does Maths Inspire Kids to Learn?
As parents, we are lucky enough to take for granted all that maths has taught us about the world. But just what are our kids learning when they begin to experiment with these vital skills? How could maths matter so much for early development?
In fact, the number of positive influences it has are almost incalculable. So, let’s look at a few of the marvellous things maths can do to inspire further thinking in young minds:
1) Foundation for Future Learning: Early exposure to math lays a solid foundation for future academic success. It's like building the first layer of a magnificent castle of knowledge.
2) Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Math is not just about numbers; it's about cultivating problem-solving skills and fostering a logical mindset. These skills, acquired through playful math activities, are tools that will benefit kids throughout their lives.
3) Everyday Practicality: From counting toys to dividing snacks, maths is a part of everyday life. Learning maths through play makes it relatable and showcases its practical applications, empowering kids to navigate the world around them.
4) Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Engaging in math activities sharpens cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and spatial awareness. It's like a mental workout that strengthens the brain's capacity for learning.
5) Preparation for School Success: As kids approach school age, a familiarity with math concepts puts them ahead of the curve. It boosts confidence and eases the transition into more structured learning environments.
6) Fun Learning Experience: Incorporating math into playtime adds an element of joy to the learning process. It transforms numbers into friends and math into a fun adventure, creating positive associations that last a lifetime.
Why Do Children Need Maths?
Maths is far more important than boosting your little mathemagicians future hopes of starring on Countdown. It is a language and, just like our spoken word, it allows us to communicate and understand the world around us.
Developed alongside teachers, our Mini Minds Hub is packed with a wonderful collection of maths resources, ensuring that you and your little learner will be math-ecstatic. So throw your calculators into the air and join us. Let’s all celebrate National Maths Day together and multiply the fun! All the numbers add up, solving the equation of just why it is maths important in the early years of learning.