Early Mathematics within Rich Story and Conversation

Mathematics is abstract for young children. One way to help children develop better understanding of core early mathematical concepts is by providing concrete learning experiences, thereby making mathematics more accessible to them. Additionally, children will choose to spend more time on subjects or activities they enjoy, which in turn leads to further motivation to learn more about that subject. Thus, the challenge for preschool or kindergarten teachers is fostering children's "love" for mathematics. This article will focus on how to provide preschool and kindergarten age children opportunities for giggles or wonderment in mathematics related activities. Suggestions for how to create an engaging, authentic context where children can actively participate and interact using interesting story and intentionally facilitated classroom discourse are discussed in the article.