Most people think reading is an early marker of intellectual and educational success. However, new research indicates that math skills are more important than reading in predicting future academic success. The conclusions are so strong that now experts are saying math needs to be emphasized over reading in early childhood education.
Here is what the science reveals about how math helps young children.
Predicts Academic and Career Success
According to several studies, “Early math skills foretell higher aptitude in high school math and higher rates of college enrollment… [and for] both males and females, mathematical precocity early in life predicts later creative contributions and leadership in critical occupational roles.”
Develops Problem-Solving Skills
Math is all about solving the equation. It only makes sense, then, that math improves your child’s problem-solving skills. The earlier children can solve math problems, the better they can solve everyday problems–and succeed in math at school.
Introduces Logic Skills
Dr. Jie-Qi (Jackie) Chen has said “Math is the language of logic.” Your child’s brain will mature in logic as he develops early math skills because you must first figure out the best way to solve a math equation before performing each step. Children who learn math concepts early in life have a head start on analytical and logic skills.
Improves Flexible and Creative Thinking
Equations can often be solved in more than one way, which promotes flexible and creative thinking. Using creative and flexible thinking at an early age strengthens the brain to perform more challenging mental tasks later.
Teaches Perseverance
Almost all adults can recall having a meltdown over math homework. Perhaps the greatest lesson we learned from these meltdowns was perseverance. Math provides ample opportunity to persevere and solve the equation. The earlier children learn perseverance, the more resilient they will be in the real world.
How Do I Start Teaching My Child Math?
Hopefully, you feel inspired to incorporate early math skills into your daily routine. But how do you start? You must first take into consideration the age of your child and their current math knowledge. While teaching numbers is important to understanding math, math is more than numbers.
Some creative ways to incorporate math skills include:
- Sorting shapes and colors or other toys (e.g. cars from trains)
- Discuss the different weights, sizes, shapes, and heights of objects
- Use various blocks with geometric shapes to build visual literacy
- Use pattern games to practice patterns and sequences
- Strategically choose board or card games that include math, like Chutes and Ladders or Uno
Math Skills at Crestwood Preschool Academy
Crestwood Preschool Academy teaches many early childhood math skills, as well as providing math-centered games, puzzles, and toys that develop your child’s brain so they receive all the benefits of early math skills.
It can be hard to include your child’s math skills during a busy day. Thankfully, you can rest assured that your child receives age-appropriate and fun math skills at Crestwood Preschool Academy.
Crestwood Preschool Academy is proud to offer an outstanding educational and fun curriculum that prepares your child for kindergarten per state academic standards.
Contact Crestwood Preschool Academy today if you’re looking to give your child a head start in school!