Whether in Reception or nursery, it is vital that the learning environment matches the needs of the individual four- or five-year-old and promotes their understanding of mathematical concepts and early mark-making.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Four- and five-year-olds need lots of uninterrupted time to explore their interests within ‘enabling environments’, indoors and out, that are appropriate to their development needs. Essential too is the support of informed practitioners with the knowledge and understanding to support children’s own learning. The National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) still offers free online training modules for practitioners. Registration is free and the training identifies:
One problem is that practitioners often limit their observations and assessments of children’s mathematical learning to adult-directed focus activities. Consequently, children’s incidental maths learning is often missed as practitioners focus on preconceived learning intentions.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here