In the world of early childhood education, the key to nurturing number sense is to make learning maths fun! Let’s explore how we can infuse fun into the process of understanding numbers.

(This is Part 4 in my Number Sense series – you can start with Part 1 here.)

Play-Based Learning: Making Learning About Numbers Fun Through Play

The foundation of early maths education is play. It’s about turning maths concepts into games, activities, and hands-on experiences – it’s about making maths fun. When children play, they engage with numbers naturally and develop a deep understanding.

Consider board games, puzzles, and activities like building with blocks. These not only reinforce number sense but also introduce important mathematical concepts like spatial relationships and patterns.

Maths Talk: Conversations About Numbers

Encouraging maths-related conversations is a fantastic way to make numbers a part of everyday life. Ask questions like, “How many buttons do you have on your shirt?” or “Can you count the flowers in the garden?”

By talking about numbers casually, you create a maths-friendly environment where small humans feel comfortable exploring and sharing their thoughts.

Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate Small Victories in Maths Learning

Celebrate every mathematical achievement, no matter how small. When a child correctly counts a set of objects, solves a problem, or spots a pattern, praise their efforts. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and enthusiasm for maths.

Numeracy Exploration and Discovery

Maths is all about exploration and discovery. Encourage small humans to ask questions and seek answers. Provide them with opportunities to explore numbers in their own way, fostering a sense of independence in their learning journey.

Incorporate Kids’ Interests Into Their Maths Learning To Make It Fun

Tap into their interests and hobbies. If a child loves dinosaurs, you can count dinosaur figurines or create maths stories with prehistoric creatures. By incorporating their passions, learning becomes even more enjoyable.

Variety is the Spice of Learning, Even With Numbers!

Remember, variety is key. Mix up the activities, games, and maths-related experiences. Explore different aspects of maths, from counting and number recognition to problem-solving and patterns. This keeps the learning process fresh and exciting.

By making maths enjoyable and playful, we ensure that children develop a positive attitude toward numbers. Learning maths becomes an adventure, and each mathematical discovery is a treasure to be celebrated.

In our final section, we’ll wrap up our exploration of early childhood maths education by emphasizing the importance of nurturing number sense in our small friends. So, stay with me as we conclude this mathematical journey!

Nurturing Number Sense in Early Childhood by Making Maths Fun

Laying the building blocks of number sense, from subitising to mastering counting skills, comparing numbers, and developing a sense of estimation are foundational skills that provide our small friends with the tools to understand and interact with numbers in their world.

Understanding how numbers connect, introducing basic operations in playful ways, and recognizing patterns opened the door to a deeper comprehension of maths, and develop problem-solving skills, where critical thinking and creativity take centre stage. By encouraging our small humans to apply their mathematical knowledge to real-life situations, we empower them to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.

Throughout this journey, one thing remains crystal clear: learning maths can and should be enjoyable. Play-based learning, maths conversations, positive reinforcement, and a variety of activities ensure that maths becomes a natural and engaging part of a child’s life.

Nurturing number sense isn’t just about numbers; it’s about nurturing curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong love for learning. It’s about creating an environment where small humans feel confident and excited to embrace the world of maths – by making maths fun!

Thank you for joining me on this mathematical road trip. Together, we’re making maths fun for every small human. Let’s continue to nurture number sense and watch them grow.

If you would like a number sense freebie, I have one for you HERE.

Here are a few number sense resources I use with my own kiddos – take a look, download the previews and see if they’re a good fit for you. My group has really enjoyed them, especially the card games. It’s been loads of fun (but don’t tell them they’ve been learning!)

If you missed earlier posts in the series, you can find them here – Part 1, Part 2, Part 3