Unlocking Mathematical Exploration Through Play and Manipulatives
Children as Natural Mathematicians
From an early age, children exhibit an innate curiosity about the world around them. They explore spatial relationships by pushing and pulling toys, stacking blocks, and filling and emptying cups of water. These activities allow them to experience math concepts as they experiment with measurements, spatial awareness, and problem-solving. Rather than learning by writing, early math involves actively making sense of the world around them.
Empowering Young Mathematicians
For students at César E Chávez Elementary, using manipulatives like Cuisenaire rods and Rekenrek are used to teach number sense, number recognition, adding and subtracting. Cuisenaire Rods are colorful rods used to explore spatial relationships, create flat designs, or stack three-dimensional structures.
Kindergarten through 5th grade are ideal environments for math learning. Through GRPS teacher Tara Robbins, approximately 300 students at the school will have the opportunity to play and problem-solve with items purchased through a Teacher Innovation Fund mini-grant award.
Fifth grade teacher Mrs. Kaltz shares “her students are more involved and engaged this year than in years past. She believes that this is because of the manipulatives and games that provide strategies and access points to all her students. She also believes her students are understanding the concepts quickly and more effectively.”
A Lifelong Love for Math
Children need to see themselves as capable mathematicians. Child guided explorations and teacher-guided math activities build confidence. By using manipulatives, we empower young learners to engage with math in meaningful ways, fostering a lifelong love for the subject. If you are passionate about interactive learning opportunities, consider contributing to our students’ math growth today.
