Investigating Mathematics With Young Children

Rosemary Althouse applies a new emphasis to the challenge of teaching mathematics to three-, four- and five-year old children. Conceived as a companion volume to Althouse's popular '';Investigating Science With Young Children'', this book outlines over 50 developmentally appropriate and innovative activities for helping young children explore the exciting world of mathematics in ways that are non-threatening, non-coercive and very much hands-on. In Part 1, the author develops a theoretical approach by applying information processing theory and Piagetian psychology to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' ''Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics'';, which is used as a framework within which to plan mathematical activities for young children. Part 2, the bulk of the book, presents the activities themselves in chapters organised around mathematical themes or topics. Children investigate such approachable concepts as number, measurement, spatial relationships, shape, sequencing, patterns, mathematical language, and problem solving, with an emphasis on teaching mathematics as an integral part of an early childhood education programme rather than as a set of isolated skills.