Maths possibilities are everywhere – in the water tray, the sand pit, loose parts play, storybooks and puzzles, block play and the mud kitchen. When interacting with these resources in meaningful ways, children can begin to explore mathematical concepts linked to number, quantity, shape and space. As Becky Francis, chief executive of the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), outlines in Improving Mathematics in the Early Years and Key Stage 1, ‘Very young children are naturally curious, noticing differences in quantity and the shape of objects, and use early mathematical concepts when they play’ (see Further information).
Skilled practitioners can promote mathematics through spontaneous play and everyday routines and harness children’s early mathematical development by encouraging them to ‘have a go’ and not be afraid to make mistakes.
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