Mathematics Development
​​
-
Explores Numbers and Counting
Stories often involve counting objects, characters, or actions, giving real meaning to numbers. -
Develops Awareness of Shapes and Patterns
Children encounter different textures, shapes, and arrangements in all our activities, helping them spot patterns and differences. -
Encourages Problem Solving
Activities like filling, pouring, sorting, and matching build early mathematical thinking.
​
Six things you can do at home to support your child’s Mathematical Development:
Number Games:
1. Counting Everywhere
Count steps, toys, or pieces of fruit throughout the day.
Why it helps: Builds fluency and meaning around numbers.
​
2. Dice Games
Roll a dice and do actions based on the number shown.
Why it helps: Connects numbers with quantities.
​
Shape and Pattern Activities:
3. Shape Hunts
Look for shapes in the environment: “Can you find something shaped like a circle?”
Why it helps: Builds shape recognition and spatial awareness.
​
4. Simple Pattern Making
Use blocks or beads to make simple colour or shape patterns together.
Why it helps: Encourages logical thinking.
​
Problem Solving Fun:
5. Sorting Toys
Sort teddies by size or cars by colour.
Why it helps: Builds categorisation skills.
​
6. Water Play
Use containers of different sizes and guess which holds more.
Why it helps: Introduces ideas about capacity and measurement.
What is Mathematics?
Mathematics in the Early Years is about building a deep understanding of numbers, patterns, and shapes through hands-on, practical experiences.
​
The area is broken down into two main components:
​
Number – Learning to count, recognise numbers, and understand quantity and value.
​
Numerical Patterns – Spotting patterns, comparing amounts, and understanding simple mathematical ideas like more, less, big, and small.
​
​
​
​
How is Mathematics supported in Story Sense?
Through storytelling and sensory play, we embed maths naturally into activities.