Early numeracy skills refer to understanding numbers, counting, and simple arithmetic. There are a variety of approaches when it comes to helping children hone these skills. Some parents opt for traditional methods such as math worksheets and flashcards, while others prefer more interactive games and activities.
While there is no right approach, that help develop these skills can be a great way for little ones to reinforce their learning and have fun with math at the same time.
Benefits of Developing Early Numeracy Skills
Children who are exposed to math activities early on develop stronger problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They learn to see the world around them in terms of patterns, relationships, and numerical quantities, which helps them make sense of their surroundings and think creatively when faced with challenging situations.
There are plenty of math activities you can do at home to help your preschooler develop these essential skills. Here are a few ideas to get you started on supporting his numeracy development and keeping him occupied.
1. Math Counting Games
Whether you’re preparing meals for your family or doing household chores, there are plenty of ways to get your child involved with counting. Have him count the number of cutlery and plates when setting the table at home, or the number of rooms to clean. This game can be easily incorporated into your child’s daily routine and also helps him develop observational skills as he finds things to count. So, if you’re looking for a fun way to help your little one boost his math skills, try playing some counting games!
2. Building Blocks
This math game involves stacking blocks up to make different shapes and patterns. Build a tower, tractor, or tree – the sky’s really the limit! While building, get your preschooler to count, add, or subtract the number of blocks needed to build the object. You can make the game as easy or challenging as you want, depending on his abilities. Building blocks not only helps your child to practise counting, addition, and subtraction, but it also helps develop important skills such as problem solving, hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, creativity, and spatial awareness.
3. Singing Number Songs
Do you remember singing the ABCs as a child? Or counting down to ten while clapping your hands? Children have a natural affinity for music, and songs with catchy lyrics and rhythms are especially appealing to them. Research shows that exposure to music can improve learning and makes the atmosphere a more favourable one. In fact, singing songs is a great way to learn and understand new numerical concepts better due to the positive changes in the brain. Some popular number songs to sing along with your preschooler include “Five Little Ducks”, “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed”, “The Ants Go Marching”, and “One, Two, Three, Four, Five”.
Give Your Child a Headstart in Learning Math
For parents with young children, it’s never too early to expose them to math. Fortunately, there are plenty of activities that can help develop his arithmatic skills in an exciting and engaging way. They are fun, interactive, and will help lay the foundation for a lifetime of success in math!
At MindChamps Preschool, we nurture every aspect of your child, including the development of math skills through our core and enrichment modules. Contact us to book a complimentary visit to your preferred MindChamps preschool centre today!
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