Math can’t wait. Children who can count with ease before kindergarten have a better shot at future mathematics success—and with this book, it’s simple and fun to weave counting and other math concepts into everyday activities. Drawn from the authors’ playful and popular LittleCounters® workshops, this guidebook shows early educators, caregivers, and parents how to use purposeful play with children from birth to 5 to promote mathematical thinking and get them ready for formal math instruction. Packed with easy, no-fear strategies any adult can use—even if you’re math-phobic!—this book will help all the teachers in a child’s life foster critical early math knowledge and school readiness.

READ THIS BOOK TO

Discover amazing facts about the mathematical minds of babies and young children
Transform ordinary toys into learning tools that help teach mathematical concepts
Organize play environments and activities to encourage math learning
Spot teachable moments and add purposeful math talk to daily tasks
Teach “meaningful counting”—the skill that underpins children’s potential for future math success
Infuse math learning into specific daily routines, such as meals, chores, and bedtime
Support children’s readiness for formal math instruction
Get started with your own LittleCounters® workshop—or use the principles right away in your program or home


PRACTICAL MATERIALS: Examples and vignettes; sample activities and scripts of adult-child dialogue; recommended counting books and songs; and a detailed introduction to interactive LittleCounters® workshops, where parents and kids learn and have fun together.