"Developing a strong grounding in number is essential so that all children develop the necessary building blocks to excel mathematically. Children should be able to count confidently, develop a deep understanding of the numbers to 10, the relationships between them and the patterns within those numbers. By providing frequent and varied opportunities to build and apply this understanding - such as using manipulatives, including small pebbles and tens frames for organising counting - children will develop a secure base of knowledge and vocabulary from which mastery of mathematics is built. In addition, it is important that the curriculum includes rich opportunities for children to develop their spatial reasoning skills across all areas of mathematics including shape, space and measures. It is important that children develop positive attitudes and interests in mathematics, look for patterns and relationships, spot connections, ‘have a go’, talk to adults and peers about what they notice and not be afraid to make mistakes."

Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage Setting the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five. 

Early years mathematics is important because it helps children develop skills that are essential for life, including: 

• Logical thinking: Children learn to analyze, question, and understand the world around them. 
• Problem-solving: Children learn to recognize, create, and describe patterns, which is valuable for problem-solving skills. 
• Spatial awareness: Children develop spatial skills through visualization, maps, diagrams, and graphs. 
• Numeracy: Children learn to understand and use numbers. 
   

Children can start developing mathematical skills from birth, and adults can support their development through play, interaction, and using math in everyday life. 

Here are some ways to help children develop mathematical skills:
 

• Use numbers in everyday situations, like on bus stops or street numbers.
• Play finger rhymes that use numbers.
• Draw attention to changes in amounts, like adding more bricks to a tower.
• Count fingers, toes, stairs, toys, and food items.
• Use manipulatives like foam dice or counting blocks. 
   

Children with a good early mathematical understanding are more likely to do better later in school.

What is White Rose Maths?

At St Mary's we use The White Rose Maths scheme of work. It strives to inspire children's love for this fascinating subject. It aims to develop pupils' reasoning, fluency and problem-solving skills.

The scheme of learning is split into different seasonal blocks including Autumn, Spring and Summer. Within each of these blocks, a different topic is covered, which is great for helping pupils learn one step at a time.

Below you can access Talk and Learn mats for each of the Phases taught during the Nursery Year. This can help support your children's problem solving and reasoning at home: