Math skills taught during early childhood is the foundation needed to succeed in elementary school and beyond. Math is a fundamental part of our lives and it is unfortunate that math is nearly absent in American preschools and kindergarten classes. One study calculated that at preschools where children spent six hours a day, math gets an average of only 58 seconds per day. Not even a full minute. What is more mind-blowing is that math is being taught incorrectly.

 

Basic Math Skills for Preschoolers

Early childhood education should introduce simple mathematical concepts. Introducing children to basic terminology in early childhood allows them to be set up for success in elementary school. Though preschool children might not yet be ready to learn the practice of math skills, they can gain the basic idea of practice through language and practice.

The first vital math skill a child must develop before reaching kindergarten is learning to count forwards and backward. Number sense is a vital skill that early childhood educators should focus on teaching children. Setting a strong foundation of learning to count sets children up for success in future concepts and advanced calculations.

 

Learning Through Visual Concepts

Children are visual and build relationships between numbers and items. Using pictures or favorite foods to represent the number is a good way to build a relation to the number. Your child will then make a connection between the real world and math skills, which is vital for future mathematics success.

 

Your Child’s Future

Early math skills foretell higher aptitude in high school math and higher rates of college enrollment.

In the next decade, an estimated 75% of jobs in the fastest growing industries will require science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills. As we shift into this new era, we need to set up our children for a bright future. Introducing them to these subjects at an early age will help them in their future pursuits.

Walton Academy is a private school located in Greenville, North Carolina and it is not your average school.  Small class sizes, highly qualified teachers with the freedom to teach, and a great support system are some things that set us apart! Here at Walton Academy, we meet students on their level and help them reach their full potential by encouraging them to problem-solve and think critically. S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math) curriculum helps prepare children for real life through hands-on and inquiry-based learning. Our use of guided reading, writing, and math groups allow our teachers to give each child the individualized attention that they need in order to succeed! Apply for Admissions today.