Number literacy is an essential skill for toddlers to develop as it lays the foundation for future academic success. Research suggests that early math skills are a better predictor of academic success than early reading skills [1]. In fact, early math exposure is crucial for later success in math [1]. Therefore, it is important to introduce number literacy to toddlers as early as possible.
Numeracy provides a language that children can use in play and conversation with adults, which helps them understand the world and to participate more fully in adult activities [2]. Numeracy also provides a language for children to express their feelings [2]. Babies and toddlers can recognize numbers, patterns, and shapes. They use math concepts to make sense of their world and connect these concepts with their environment and everyday activities [3].
Parents can play a crucial role in developing number literacy in their toddlers. Parent-child numeracy practices, such as teaching the counting sequence and the names of numerals, are important for children’s developing academic skills [4]. Parents can also create a home environment that fosters numeracy development by providing toys that encourage counting and sorting, such as blocks or puzzles [5].
In addition to parental involvement, early childhood education programs can also play a significant role in developing number literacy in toddlers. These programs can provide opportunities for children to learn about numbers through play-based activities such as counting games or sorting activities [6].
In conclusion, number literacy is an essential skill for toddlers to develop as it lays the foundation for future academic success. Parents and early childhood education programs can play a crucial role in developing number literacy in toddlers. By introducing number literacy to toddlers as early as possible, we can help them develop the skills they need to succeed academically.
1: https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/early-math-equals-future-success/
2: https://importance-of.com/importance-of-literacy-and-numeracy-in-early-childhood/
3: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/maths/Pages/numeracy-for-all-learners.aspx
4: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2021.535832/full
5: https://www.education.com/magazine/article/early-math-skills/
6: https://www.cela.org.au/publications/amplify)!-blog/july-2021/numeracy-in-the-early-years
