This fourth edition of the bestselling Mathematics in Early Years Education provides an accessible introduction to the teaching of mathematics in the early years. Covering all areas of mathematics – number and counting, calculation, pattern, shape, measures and data handling – it provides a wide range of practical activities and guidance on how to support young children’s mathematical development. There is also guidance on managing the transition to KS1 and a strong emphasis throughout on creating home links and working in partnership with parents.

This new edition has been fully updated to incorporate the latest research and thinking in this area and includes:

why mathematics is important as a way of making sense of the world

how attitudes to mathematics can influence teaching and learning

how children learn mathematics and what they are capable of learning

how technology can support maths teaching

maths phobia and the impact society has on maths teaching

material on sorting, matching and handling data

the importance of educating about finance in today’s world

ideas for observation and questioning to assess children’s understanding

examples of planned activities

suggestions for language development

assessment criteria.

This textbook is ideal for those training to be teachers through an undergraduate or PGCE route, those training for Early Years Professional Status and those studying early childhood on foundation or honours degrees, as well as parents looking to explore how their young children learn mathematics. This will be an essential text for any early years practitioner looking to make mathematics interesting, exciting and engaging in their classroom.