Early Years maths resources including EYFS maths scheme of work

In the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which typically covers the ages of 3 to 5 in the United Kingdom, children engage in a wide range of activities and experiences that lay the foundation for their mathematical development. The EYFS framework recognizes the importance of fostering a positive attitude towards mathematics and aims to help children develop essential skills in this subject through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences.

Here are some key aspects of what children learn about in maths during the EYFS:

1. **Counting and Cardinality:**
– **Counting Objects:** Children learn to count by rote and understand the concept of one-to-one correspondence by matching each object with a number.
– **Counting in Sequence:** They practice counting in sequence and begin to recognise and recite numbers up to at least 10.

2. **Number Recognition:**
– **Identifying Numbers:** Children are introduced to numerals and start recognising and naming numbers.
– **Number Representation:** They explore different ways numbers can be represented, such as through numerals, words, and objects.

3. **Comparing and Ordering:**
– **Comparing Quantities:** Children compare sets of objects and begin to understand concepts like more, less, greater than, and fewer than.
– **Ordering Numbers:** They practice arranging numbers in ascending or descending order, enhancing their understanding of number magnitude.

4. **Basic Operations:**
– **Simple Addition and Subtraction:** Through practical activities and play, children develop an initial understanding of addition (combining sets) and subtraction (taking away).
– **Using Mathematical Language:** They begin using basic mathematical language related to addition and subtraction, such as “more,” “less,” “altogether,” and “take away.”

5. **Shape, Space, and Measure:**
– **Recognising Shapes:** Children identify and name common 2D and 3D shapes in their environment.
– **Comparing Sizes:** They explore concepts related to size, weight, length, and capacity using comparative language like big, small, heavy, light, long, short, full, and empty.

6. **Pattern Recognition:**
– **Recognising Patterns:** Children start recognizing and creating simple patterns, fostering their ability to predict and generalize.

7. **Problem-Solving and Reasoning:**
– **Problem-Solving Skills:** Through various activities, children are encouraged to use their mathematical understanding to solve simple problems and puzzles.
– **Reasoning:** They develop the ability to explain their thinking and reasoning behind their mathematical decisions.

8. **Mathematical Vocabulary:**
– **Mathematical Language:** Children build a foundation of mathematical vocabulary, helping them communicate and express their thoughts about mathematical concepts.

The EYFS approach to mathematics emphasises the importance of hands-on, play-based learning, recognizing that children learn best when actively engaged and motivated. The goal is to build a strong mathematical foundation and instill a positive attitude towards the subject as children progress in their educational journey.

Explore our Early Years maths scheme of work to get instant access to lesson plans, slides, worksheets, activity cards and much more!