1st Edition

Everyday Maths through Everyday Provision Developing opportunities for mathematics in the early years

By Elaine Bennett, Jenny Weidner Copyright 2012
    160 Pages
    by Routledge

    160 Pages
    by Routledge

    Children are born naturally mathematical, so why is it sometimes so difficult to observe children being mathematical? Why do so many of us think we are ‘bad’ at maths and how does this subconsciously affect the provision, experiences and opportunities we provide for young children who are starting their mathematical learning journey?

    This easily accessible book will help you to realise the wonderful mathematical learning happening in your setting all day and every day through the familiar resources and experiences routinely offered to young children. It will help you to think more reflectively about what you are providing for children and suggest ways of making provision richer and more exciting for you and the children in your care.

    With chapters linked to areas of continuous provision including sand, water, dough, role play, music, outdoors and ICT among many others, this book features:

    • A wide range of activities including key questions, vocabulary and advice on observations
    • Lists of key resources
    • Ideas to support children’s mathematical mark making
    • Useful links to stories and rhymes to engage children and promote mathematical learning
    • Links to other areas of learning and development
    • Suggestions for involving parents

    Providing a wealth of exciting, meaningful, play-based ways to promote mathematical learning and create a maths rich environment, this highly practical book will help you to develop young children’s confidence and enjoyment of maths through your everyday provision. It is a perfect resource for Early Years Practitioners working in all settings, as well as those studying on childcare, Early Childhood and Early Years Professional Status courses.

    Acknowledgements

    Foreword

    Introduction

    How to use this book

    Water

    Sand

    Dough

    Construction

    Role Play

    Creative Workshop

    Small World

    Food and Cookery

    Music Making and Sounds

    ICT

    Out and About

    Daily Routines

    Bibliography

     

     

    Biography

    Elaine Bennett is an experienced Early Years/Key Stage 1 practitioner and freelance writer who has also worked as an Early Years Consultant for Southend Local Authority.

    Jenny Weidner is an Advanced Skills Teacher specialising in mathematics and provides training for professionals working in the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1.

    ‘This book explores all aspects of early years provision from a mathematical perspective, whether in exploring food, getting out and about, construction, water, sand and dough play, and so on, and examines how to promote vocabulary and thinking skills. You will enjoy delivering maths as much as the children should learning it with the support of this brilliant text!’

    Early Years Educator, vol. 13 April 2012, Martine Horvath