Fun and Fundamental Math for Young Children

Book excerpt: Educators of young children who don’t yet know the work of Marian Small are in for a gift—a treasure trove to enhance their teaching and thinking about math. This book focuses on the most important concepts and skills needed to provide early learners (preK–2) with a strong foundation in mathematics, in ways that are fun for both children and educators! For each mathematical concept, professional developer Marian Small provides sample activities and lessons, as well as guidance for using children’s books, games, manipulatives, and electronic devices. This resource also demonstrates how to differentiate instruction using tasks and questions designed to include all students. Like other Marian Small bestsellers, the text features her special brand of lucid explanation of difficult concepts, fresh and engaging teaching examples, troubleshooting tips, and formative assessments. Fun and Fundamental Math for Young Children is separated into special grade level sections for pre-K, kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. It can be used with any early childhood curriculum or as a stand-alone program in preschools. Marian Small is available for in-person and online professional development. “Within the first few pages it quickly became apparent that, whether you are a new or veteran teacher, your knowledge and appreciation of and for primary mathematics will grow page by page.” —From the Foreword by Graham Fletcher, math specialist, Atlanta, Georgia “Marian Small describes the development of major aspects of children’s mathematical thinking and connects them to many interesting and useful classroom activities.” —Herbert Ginsburg, professor emeritus, Teachers College, Columbia University “I love this book! The ideas are invaluable and the attention to detail is amazing.” —Nicki Newton, math consultant