Mathematics: Ideas take shape
In this last in a series on ‘maths talk’, we look at using heuristic play to introduce shape names and terminology, and explore linked activities that encourage children to confidently use new words.
In this last in a series on ‘maths talk’, we look at using heuristic play to introduce shape names and terminology, and explore linked activities that encourage children to confidently use new words.
'There's no such thing as bad weather – just inappropriate clothing,' as the saying goes. Use children’s colourful winter clothing as a link to many areas of learning.
For young children, mathematical learning and development is all about the concepts of quantity, space and distance. At this early stage, the hands on exploration of these concepts is of key importance – and a Tuff Tray makes the perfect resource.
Try these easy-to-play games which will entertain children and extend their physical and communication skills, while out for a stroll.
Autumn leaves are a key sign of the changing seasons and make a colourful, accessible and versatile resource for play and exploration. The beauty of them is that at this time of the year they are available in abundance – and completely free.
Take time to make a tactile exploration of number. Claire Hewson suggests using petroleum jelly, flour and glitter to make slimy tracings and repeating patterns which children can identify and compare.
To understand the concepts of weight and measure children need to explore, experiment and get their hands dirty. This becomes all the more relevant when placed in the context of a picture book narrative.
Sal McKeown discovers how digital program Mathseeds is putting the fun into the learning and practising of key mathematical concepts at a London primary, and why teachers find it an easy resource to navigate.
There is one thing you can predict about a British summer, it is completely unpredictable! But as we know, with the right assortment of clothes, we go outside come rain or shine.
This month, we start a new series based on the maths area of learning in the foundation stage, providing an A-Z of activities that will help children progress while having fun.
This month, we continue our series based on the maths area of learning in the foundation stage, providing an A-Z of activities that will help children progress while having fun.
We hear a great deal about children being ‘school ready’, which sounds like something both very definitive and well documented, but what does this mean for childminders?
A keen interest, verging on a slight obsession with transport, can lead to some specific learning opportunities. Here, we use wheels to help children move streets ahead.
This month, we continue our series based on the maths area of learning in the foundation stage, providing an A-Z of activities that will help children progress while having fun.
This month, we continue our series based on the maths area of learning in the foundation stage, providing an A-Z of activities that will help children progress while having fun.
Continuing our exploration of the prime and specific areas of learning, this month we focus on the specific area of maths and discuss how we can support the children in our settings.
Try Hilary White’s ideas for making maths fun with guessing games linked to measurement and shape that are full of surprises. Support children to extend their learning with a well-resourced games area.
In this article, we revisit Talk for Maths Mastery and use a selection of case studies that explain and advise on how we can support and appreciate children’s mathematical mark making and thinking in reception classes.
We resume our series of articles that look at the possibilities for play and learning inherent in certain popular and common early years resources and materials – this month, the weather.
The fifth in our series exploring practical activities for introducing concepts that will help children in the Understanding the world area of learning – this month, we look at the science of sunlight and shadows.
Take the fear factor out of maths at an early age by introducing counting as part of sensory exploration. Ensuring enjoyment comes first will help to build confidence in working with numbers.
Always a favourite these are especially delicious when made with wholewheat flour, says Ailsa Chapman.
Judith Harries explores picture books written by children’s laureate Lauren Child, creator of popular characters Charlie and his little sister Lola. Use these to bring work with numbers and counting to life.
How many digs of the trowel does it take to make a little seed hole, and how many beans will you plant? In part three of her growing area series, Karen Hart explores opportunities for number skills.
The rights and wrongs of taking inspiration from popular culture, whether music, books or films is a hot topic, also discussed elsewhere in this issue. Sometimes, it is where stories can take you that counts.