National Numeracy Day is a fantastic opportunity to focus on the importance of numeracy skills in young children. But numeracy isn’t just about memorising numbers! It’s about building a foundation for understanding and applying math concepts in everyday life.
The good news? You can nurture these skills throughout your daily routines and activities! Here are some tips to get you started:
- Sing and Count: Nursery rhymes and songs that involve counting are classics for a reason. They make learning numbers fun and engaging.
- Turn Everyday Tasks into Math Adventures: Setting the table? Count the plates, spoons, and forks! Going for a walk? Count the trees, cars, or birds you see.
- Embrace story time: Many children’s books cleverly weave numbers and counting into their narratives. Point out numerals and ask questions about quantities as you read.
- Get active! Play hopscotch, jump rope while counting jumps, or create obstacle courses with numbered stations.
- Incorporate Manipulatives: Use blocks, buttons, or other objects to help children visualise numbers and practice basic addition and subtraction.
- Get Creative with Playtime: Board games, sorting toys, and building activities all provide opportunities to explore numbers and develop spatial reasoning.
- Arts and crafts: String beads in patterns, sort buttons by colour and count them, or create artwork with geometric shapes.
By incorporating these simple strategies, you can make numeracy a natural part of your childcare setting. Remember, a positive and playful approach is key to fostering a love of learning that will benefit children for years to come!
Learn about National Numeracy Day and sign up for a FREE toolkit on the National Numeracy website!
Brighten Up Your Setting with Colourful Learning Resources!
All About Numbers Chart
Looking for a colourful and interactive way to reinforce numerical concepts? Check out our downloadable All About Numbers Chart!
This chart features numbers, written words, tallies, counters, and even stars for children to manipulate and interact with. It’s a great addition to your play area and can be used for a variety of activities, including:
- Matching numbers to their written form.
- Counting objects and placing the corresponding number of counters on the chart.
- Using the tally marks to represent quantities.
All About Shapes Poster Display
Spark curiosity with this bright display and help children to learn about and recognise shapes. Includes SHAPE Snap Cards and SHAPE Worksheet for more shape learning fun!
All About Colours Poster Display
Create interest with this bright display and help children to learn about and recognise colours. Includes COLOUR Snap Cards and COLOUR Worksheet for more shape learning fun!
👉Visit our Activities section for more ideas and inspiration to encourage learning through play.
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