Mini Maths

Developing a strong grounding in numbers is essential so that all children develop the necessary building blocks to excel mathematically. Children should be able to count confidently, develop a deep understanding of the numbers, the relationships between them and the patterns within those numbers.

Through opportunities for purposeful play and plenty of practice, children will develop a secure base of knowledge and vocabulary from which mastery of mathematics is built. Children will develop positive attitudes and interests in mathematics, look for patterns and relationships, spot connections, ‘have a go’, talk to adults and peers about what they notice and not be afraid to make mistakes.

Children taking part in a number activity

Confident Counters

Introducing young children to counting and mathematical activities helps develop their numerical skills, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, and lays the foundation for more advanced concepts. Counting provides a fun and interactive way for children to learn and practice early mathematical skills, improving their confidence and ability to learn.

Child counting using a montessori resource

Mathematics tips: Reinforce   number recognition

Playing skittles helps reinforce number counting in children by providing a fun and interactive way for them to practice counting objects and matching their count to a numeral. This helps them develop their number recognition and one-to-one correspondence skills, which are important building blocks for understanding mathematical concepts.  The activity will also help children build their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, further supporting their overall development.

Child sorting gnumber resources to re-inforce counting

Mathematics tips: Counting at home

Making a fruit salad for example, is a fun and practical activity that can help children develop their counting and mathematical skills. By counting the different fruit items and measuring quantities, children can practice counting and basic arithmetic. Sorting and categorizing the fruit based on their characteristics can also help children understand patterns and relationships.

Child counting numbers on a table at home

Mathematics tips: Provide a commentary to everyday activities

Encouraging children to count during regular activities such as counting stairs, matching socks, laying the table and counting cutlery, is a simple yet effective way to develop their math skills. By counting objects or actions, children reinforce number recognition and build one-to-one correspondence.

Children with a Nursery Practitioner

Play games

Playing simple games such as snakes & ladders or ludo can provide benefits such as developing their number recognition, counting and basic arithmetic skills. These games also help to improve their understanding of spatial relationships and basic geometry, and can help children develop their problem-solving skills, as they learn to strategise and plan ahead.

Child playing with learning cards memory game at nursery

Meaningful Maths: Play the ‘what doesn’t belong game’

This type of activity helps to improve children’s attention to detail and their ability to identify similarities and differences. A example of this is naming three items, two alike and one different (such as ‘apple, orange, peas’). Ask your child ‘which doesn’t go?’ and ‘why’? Contact your nursery for a Parent Resource Activity Card.

Meaningful Maths: Home   baking

Cooking and baking with children at home is a great way to help them practice mathematical skills while having fun. By measuring ingredients such as cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons, children gain a better understanding of measurements. As they count and recognise numbers on the recipe, they will be able to improve their counting and number recognition skills.

Child measuring ingredients at home

What our families say about maths at our nurseries

My daughter has attended this nursery since she was 18-months-old; she is now 4. It is a fantastic little nursery with warm, welcoming staff who have always been brilliant. They are very professional, and I have always felt that she is in safe hands; they keep me updated on her daily progress, and I am always notified asap if she has had a fall or bump whilst playing. She is now nearing school age, and I can see how well the nursery is preparing her, teaching her letters, basic maths, phonics etc. Which she is definitely enjoying and progressing well with. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this nursery; my daughter loves going and has always been very happy here.

Mother of child

We are incredibly grateful to the manager and her team for all they have done for our little girl since we moved here. The settling in period was gently and thoughtfully managed. The food is good. Your staff are caring and obviously skilled at their jobs - our child has developed beautifully under their care, physically, socially and getting to grips with early reading/maths too.

Father of child

I now send my youngest daughter to this nursery and from the moment I sent her I saw her develop immediately. She was able to string sentences together, her speech improved, her creativity widen and her maths and English came on wonderfully. I honestly couldn't think of a better place to send my children, the staff are caring, helpful, and go above and beyond for each child.

Mother of child