Foundational Mathematics: A Neglected Opportunity

Abstract

The importance of preschool-level mathematics education has not been adequately understood or emphasized by either the early childhood or mathematics education communities. While early childhood educators are held back by a lack of mathematical knowledge and confidence, mathematics educators tend to miss the importance of the mathematical learning that takes place prior to the use of symbols. This chapter describes that foundational mathematics, and proposes that enhanced recognition and understanding of it and its relationship to the mathematics of primary school is a necessary step to improving mathematics education generally. A professional development program in foundational mathematics with proven effects on teaching and child outcomes is described. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2011.