Early Math
Houston, We DON’T Have a Problem
The early math research associates at the AIMS Center for Math and Science have studied and written about the importance of spatial reasoning skills in the early learning classroom. Our blogs have suggested ways teachers can promote spatial reasoning skills by having children learn directions on a grid mat, manipulate puzzle pieces, and create Lego… Continue Reading
Learning from Others – Deena Weisberg
Learning through play is an idea that is gaining much popularity in the field of education. Especially for young children, the use of play can harness a power of engagement that comes naturally to children. The characteristics of play that are productive for learning can prove to be an essential element in ensuring deep and… Continue Reading
Let Me Play
As many of you know for the last year, I have had the privilege of working with preschool-aged children on a weekly basis, watching them, interacting with them, and listening to them as they engaged in mathematical and other content daily. As I reflect on my year spent with seventy-seven little ones, I am overcome… Continue Reading
Bring 4th Your Spatial Abilities; They Are Everywhere
Packing for a trip is just like putting a puzzle together. You want a limited amount of luggage and you are turning, flipping, squeezing, and rotating items to make everything fit. Even more challenging is loading a luggage cart after a weekend long conference when you have luggage for 10 (really only 2 people, but… Continue Reading
A Year of Learning; A Lifetime to Positively Impact
I have documented the partnership of the two Head Start Preschool programs and AIMS Center for Math and Science for the past year. On May 11, 2018, the AIMS Center hosted the final professional learning session for the school year with over 40 educators in attendance. It truly was a morning of celebration as we… Continue Reading
Teachers as Learners, Learners as Teachers
In my previous post, I wrote about the ways teachers might engage with children during play. In particular, I highlighted Brent Davis’ explanation: “The teacher becomes a vital part of the action. Immersed in the play, the teacher too is a learner.” This post continues these ideas, with several specific references to readings that take… Continue Reading
Learning from Others – Nora Newcombe (Part 2)
In my last blog I introduced an expert researcher in the field of spatial reasoning, Dr. Nora Newcombe, and discussed the opportunity I had to interview her. Below are summaries of four of Dr. Newcombe’s articles that directly connect to our work and learning at the preschool level. Building Blocks for Developing Spatial Skills This… Continue Reading
It’s More Than Child’s Play
Two weeks ago, my colleague, Jaclyn and I had the opportunity to attend and present at CAAEYC’s Annual Conference and Expo in Pasadena, CA. I was fortunate to have the honor of being a featured presenter and speak to Learning Mathematics through Play. As the title suggests we talked about the mathematical concepts that can… Continue Reading
CCAEYC 2018 Keynote Speaker Reflection
I just returned from attending and presenting at the California Association for the Education of Young Children (CAAEYC). These three days were filled with learning, meeting new educators, sharing our love for early education, and spreading our knowledge from AIMS regarding early mathematics through play and spatial activities. On Friday I attended the keynote presentation:… Continue Reading
Reaching a Destination Without GPS
The Global Positioning System, more commonly known as GPS, has greatly reduced driving time and increased the confidence of travelers. Using a large unfolded map to determine step-by-step directions to a destination has become an almost entirely extinct method of navigation. I wonder how many children under the age of 12 actually have utilized or… Continue Reading
