Description

Beyond 1, 2, 3 is a comprehensive collection providing an overview of important topics within the field of early childhood mathematics education in Canada. Chapters include a mix of theory and practice, a set of learning objectives, key terms, and discussion questions.

The expert contributors from across Canada focus Beyond 1, 2, 3 into four essential sections: creating mathematically rich early years classrooms, enriching early mathematics learning through play, developing early mathematical thinking with technology and coding, and engaging families and communities in early mathematics learning.

The foundational opening section includes chapters on how to support curiosity in early mathematics learning; understanding, assessing, and building children’s early number skills; principles for teaching early mathematics with manipulatives; and an overview of the typical characteristics and cognitive processes of students with mathematics learning disabilities. Section two highlights play as a tool to build spatial thinking and abstract ideas, while demonstrating practical examples of how to integrate assessment into math play. Section three explores a touchscreen technology program called TouchCounts and practical ideas for how coding can support early mathematics learning. Section four ties together the other sections with emphasis on the role of parents and the community in encouraging early math learning through different practices that may be used at home and in community-based programs.

Beyond 1, 2, 3 is an important text for primary and elementary mathematics education courses offered in Bachelor of Education and Early Childhood Education programs, as well as a professional learning resource for teachers and early childhood educators.