Developing Young Mathematicians

A growing body of research shows that early math ability is a predictor of later academic success in all areas. So how do we develop our youngest mathematicians? Our early learning workshop series, “Developing Young Mathematicians,” explores foundational math concepts for kids ages 3-6. Participants will explore and discuss how kids think about and learn math, and how teachers can tap in to young learners’ natural curiosities and the power of play to develop mathematical thinking.

Each day will include:

• exploration of a research-based learning trajectory that shows how skills and understandings develop over time;
• lessons and activities to explore foundational math ideas and build understanding;
• ways to use literature to spark mathematical thinking;
• routines to integrate mathematical thinking throughout the school day;
• time to collaborate and network with other early childhood educators.

Agenda & Learning Goals

Day 1: Counting & Number Sense – Counting is an act that seems simple to adults, but in the mind of a child there are so many things happening as they engage in counting. During day 1, participants will dig in to the concept of counting, and look at how teachers can build on what kids already know to deepen their understanding.

Learning Goals

• Examine the skills and understandings involved in counting
• Understand how counting supports a deep understanding of numbers and quantities
• Explore four relationships to build number sense

Day 2: Shapes & Spatial Reasoning – Many people assume that early math learning should focus on numbers and counting, leaving very little time for naming shapes. In fact, research shows that learning about shapes and spatial reasoning is critical for developing students’ mathematical ability and later math achievement. During day 2, participants will learn about the processes of spatial reasoning, and look at how teachers can use this knowledge to develop kids’ spatial thinking.

Learning Goals

• Learn about the processes involved in spatial reasoning
• Explore ways for kids to work with shapes meaningfully
• Think about how to monitor students as they work to build understanding

Day 3: Adding & Subtracting – As kids become skilled at counting, they intuitively use counting to make sense of the world around them. When given the right opportunities and support, kids naturally develop an understanding of more/less, the same, putting together, and taking apart. During day 3, participants will learn how to use kids’ developing thinking to build a solid understanding of addition and subtraction.

Learning Goals

• Explore problem situations that help students to make sense of what it means to add and subtract
• Discuss how kids use counting strategies to make sense of mathematical situations
• Think about ways to structure meaningful group conversations that use student thinking to build understanding for all students

Day 4: Measurement – Big or small? Fast or slow? Tall or short? Heavy or light? Cold or hot? There are so many questions kids ask about our world that can be answered by measuring or estimating. During day 4, participants will engage in activities that help them understand what skills and understandings are involved in the measurement process. With this understanding, teachers will be better equipped to help students explore questions like “how many?” or “how much?”

Learning Goals

• Look at mathematical concepts that lay the foundation for measuring
• Understand what it means to measure an attribute and focus on conceptual language kids use as they measure and communicate their results to others
• Discuss ways to structure learning so kids have authentic opportunities to engage in both estimation and precise measurement

Developing Young Mathematicians

Grade Level: PreK-1

Content Focus: Early Learning – Mathematics

Dates: June 26-29, 2023

Times: 8:30am – 3:00pm

Location: Mathematics Institute of Wisconsin W233 N2080 Ridgeview Parkway, Suite 100 Waukesha, WI 53188

Cost: $879 includes light breakfast and lunch.

Printable Workshop Flyer

Event Capacity: This workshop will be capped at 32 participants. 

The deadline to register is June 21, 2023.

*Workshop may not run if enrollment is less than 15 participants. In the event of a cancellation due to low enrollment full refunds will be issued.*

Refund Policy:

Cancellations made more than 180 days prior to this event will receive a full refund minus a 10% processing fee. Cancellations made between 180 and 30 days of the event will receive a 50% refund minus a 10% processing fee. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 30 days of the event.

To request a refund email Sherry Bucholtz at sherry.bucholtz@mathinstitutewi.org. Refund requests will be responded to within five (5) business days.