Teaching Young Children Mathematics

Children learn mathematics most effectively in contexts that are meaningful to them. Realizing the potential of these contexts for fostering young children's mathematical learning while nurturing and challenging them, requires knowledge of mathematics as well as of child development. Avoiding the debates surrounding "hands-on" learning vs. direct instruction, the author focuses on the value of different contexts for learning, and illustrates ways to genuinely engage children as active learners. The work is rich with examples of children's interactions with each other and with adults as they utilize and extend their understanding of mathematics. Examples and guidelines for developing lessons and activities will be useful for both educators and parents.

Sydney L. Schwartz is Professor Emerita, Elementary and Early Childhood Education, Queens College, City University of New York. She publishes extensively in her field of mathematics education.