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Parents often get a jump on formal instruction when it comes to language and literacy by reading to their toddlers and teaching the alphabet before their kids ever set foot in a classroom. But getting a head start on mathematics is often restricted to teaching children to count, says Lynn McGarvey, a professor of elementary education at the University of Alberta whose research looks at teaching and learning math in early childhood.
McGarvey says her research focus on instilling mathematical concepts in young learners aims to promote numeracy the way literacy has been emphasized as a foundational educational experience.
"When educators and parents create opportunities for mathematical engagement in day-to-day activities, then children will experience mathematics not just as a skill or a tool, but a way of thinking and being in the world," she says.
McGarvey says there are a few things math-minded parents and early childhood educators can think about when interacting with young learners.
I've tried lots of things to get my kids interested in math. So far, the most effective has been demonstrating the power of purposeful laziness. What are your experiences?
(Score: 2) by linkdude64 on Tuesday March 22 2016, @09:38PM
My mistake, I had assumed that she was in America. Fractions are definitely still applicable concepts. I work in 16ths and sometimes 32nds (nothing compared to machinists, but then, they work in mils) and it was such a pain having to get accustomed to it after cutting my teeth with hand tools working on metric motorcycles.
Without a doubt, that little girl will do great things whether or not a unit system makes it easier or more difficult for her.