Developing a strong grounding in number is essential so that all children develop the necessary building blocks to excel mathematically.
Children in the Early Years should be able to count confidently and develop a deep understanding of the numbers to 10. They should appreciate the relationships between and the patterns within those numbers. By providing frequent and varied opportunities to build and apply this understanding – such as using manipulatives, including small pebbles and tens frames for organising counting – children will develop a secure base of knowledge and vocabulary from which mastery of mathematics is built.
In addition, it is important that the curriculum includes rich opportunities for children to develop their spatial reasoning skills across all areas of mathematics including shape, space and measures. It is important that children develop positive attitudes and interests in mathematics, look for patterns and relationships, spot connections, ‘have a go’, talk to adults and peers about what they notice and not be afraid to make mistakes.
Quick Links Early Years Curriculum Overview : Communication and Language : Personal, Social and Emotional Development : Physical Development : Literacy : Mathematics : Understanding the World : Expressive Arts and Design