Mathematics is the study of such types like quantity, structures, space and change. Mathematics developed from counting, calculation, measurement and systematic study of shape and motion of physical object.
Early Numeracy in children refers to the funding of mathematical require in early childhood
Pre- math in childhood is a term used to refer to mathematical skill learned by pre-school such as learning to count numbers and learning the prefer sequencing of numbers.
- Number sense: this is the ability to count accurately first forward and later backward as children grow older. E.g.1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 and 10, 9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1.
- Pre- presentation: this is making maths idea real by using words, pictures, symbols and objects e.g. building blocks.
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Sparfial sense: this is the geometry but in the early years. It is simply the introduction of shapes, sizes, space, position to children as they advance, you talk about cone, cuboids etc.
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Measurement: this is finding the length, height, weight of an object using unit like inches, but in the early years, measurement is simply limited for heipina children to help fill measurement car waters, sand, granulated sugar, gravel.
- Estimation: this is the ability to make a good guess about the size of something in comparison between object. In ECE, measurement is reduced to the understanding of the meaning of words like less, smaller, bigger, etc. e.g. my ball is bigger than her ball.
- Pattern: it refers to thing like numbers, shapes and images that continue in a logical way. They have children make predictions, understand what comes next, make logical connections and use reasoning skills.
- Problem solving: it is the ability to think through a problem i.e. using logical thinking to find answers.
Example:-
Jeffrey has 2 apples, mummy gave him 2 more apples, and how many does he have altogether.
Solution
00 + 00 = 0000
What teachers need to do for these children in early years is to provide the necessary building blocks for the entire academic carrier by introducing them to all simple math skills.
IMPORTANCE OF MATH IN EARLY YEARS OF CHILDREN.
- Maths helps children to develop logical thinking and reasoning strategies in their everyday activities.
- It helps them to make sense of numbers, line, patterns and shapes for activities like cooking, reading, instructions, etc.
- It helps them to gain the necessary foundational skills for success in life
- It helps them to develop the skills for accessing the broader curriculum.
- Early maths helps them prepare for employment.