Math with Shoes!

July 13, 2017

Math concepts and skills naturally begin to develop very early in life. In fact, from the very moment they are born. As a result of the interactions they have with trusted adults and their everyday experiences, infants are beginning to formulate ideas about math and are using math concepts to make sense of their worlds. Think about it – the infant who signals that they want more, the toddler that attempts to climb inside a box that is too small, the young child filling cups in the bathtub – these are all examples of the beginnings of important math concepts and the language that we use when talking to young children about math ideas (more, empty, full, big) matters.

Being intentional about the language we use when talking to infants and toddlers not only supports the development of math concepts but also helps to build a positive attitude to learning math later in life.

Every day our rituals and routines are packed full of rich opportunities for teachable math moments. In an effort to help make the math that occurs naturally in daily life visible to caregivers and empower them to capitalize on these moments, we have created a series of short videos to equip you with the tools and language to talk about these moments.

The video we are sharing today challenges you to see, “How Many Things Can You Do With A Pile Of Shoes?” In addition to what you will see in the video, here are a few other things for you to think about.

Pattern Activities
For something to be considered a pattern it must repeat a minimum of two and a half times.

For example, big, little, big, little, big! Or stripes, solids, stripes, solids, stripes.
A little more complex – red, blue, blue, red, red blue, blue, red, red, blue, blue

Counting and Sorting Activities
Research shows that rote counting is one of the most important foundational math skills.

Count how many single shoes?
How many pairs?
Can you sort them according to size? Now lets count them!
Older children can count by two’s!
Sort by color!
Can you think of any what other categories you can sort them by?

Measurement Activities
How many of your feet does it take to get from point A to point B?
How many do you think it will take for a larger foot?
How about a medium size foot?

What kind of shapes can you make?
Remember – using math words is so important!
First, next, last, in front of, behind, next to
We hope you enjoy our Math Moments video and come back next time for more!

Do you have a Math Moment you would like to share? I would love to hear it! Post a comment below or find us on social media!