Nursery World - Professional: Book Reviews

Four books for early years practitioners on teaching maths, home learning and encouraging diversity are reviewed by Karen Hart

Playful Mathematics for Children 3 to 7 by Helen J. Williams | Corwin| Paperback: £15.24 | eBook: £15.29

Built around the idea that children are naturally mathematical in their play, Playful Mathematics for Children aims to inspire us to rethink mathematics, explore how children learn best and how adults can effectively support their mathematical learning.

Williams believes the way maths is taught in the early years is imperative in instilling a positive relationship with the subject, and suggests looking for the maths within a child’s chosen play, alongside organising a specific maths-based activity.

I particularly like the quotes that accompany each chapter. For example, ‘Carer to child, after her first day at school: Did you enjoy it? What did you do today? Child: Well, I spent a long time sorting out Mrs B’s animals, but when I finished, she tipped them all back in the box.’

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