How Important is Kindergarten Math – Choose4Me – 25 Nov 2010

A recent study conducted in 2007 shows the heightened importance of early math and reading skills for children getting ready for school.. “We find the single most important factor in predicting later academic achievement is that children begin school with a mastery of early math and literacy concepts,” says Northwestern University research Greg Duncan

But the importance of a solid foundation in early mathematics is. However, the degree to which early math skills play a role is. “The paramount importance of early math skills – of beginning school with a knowledge of numbers, number order and other rudimentary math concepts — is one of the puzzles coming out of the study,” said Duncan.

The data from the six longitudinal studies and over 36,000 children, indicated that early skills in mathematics are a greater predictor of a child’s future academic success than early reading, attention skills, and socioeconmic factors!

So what early math skills are most important? In addition, counting, sorting, and comparing objects up to 30 are considered necessary kindergarten math skills. Read more about. Read more about kindergarten standards in math here.

Technology has made great strides in the past several years in the area of childrens educational software. However many of the technical advances can be overwhelming to children just starting school. Online 3D worlds and virtual pets may be beneficial for older children using the computer to build skills while playing. Websites with 3D graphics and online virtual worlds may be a useful tool for older children looking to build skills while having fun on the computer. Kindergarten and preschool children are easily distracted by the overuse of technology in many of these programs.

Children in preschool and kindergarten should be using computer software created just for them. While it is important for young children to gain familiarity with the use of a computer, it is equally important that they are able to use software designed just for their age group.

In addition, real-time performance reporting is available immediately so parents and caregivers can focus on the most important areas that will help children prepare for success in school. In addition, performance feedback is provided immediately so parents and caregivers can focus on the most important areas that will help children prepare for success in school.

Source:  http://choose4me.com/how-important-is-kindergarten-math/