Ideas for Preschoolers
We and other researchers have found that mathematics ability upon entry to kindergarten is a strong predictor of later academic success.
Mathematics in early childhood involves counting, but also introduction of mathematical concepts, like addition and subtraction, comparison and even geometry. Use mathematical language too – if children can easily identify a Tyrannasaurus, they can certainly learn that a stop sign is a hexagon.
Given our findings of the relation between early math abilities and fingers, we encourage the use of finger games and finger counting with young children. Here are some sites with great ideas for early math and finger games to play with young children.
Preschool Rainbow provides counting and number activity suggestions, including a fun action game based on the old ‘One potato, Two potato’.
Successful Homeschooling has a page of favourite finger plays, including ‘5 Little Monkeys’ and ‘Right Hand,Left Hand’.
Perpetual Preschool has songs and finger play activities submitted by preschool teachers.
