Math. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you see this word?

Math is usually associated with science, technology and engineering. But beyond the numbers, equations and formulas, the skills and critical thinking required to solve math problems help children master other subjects as well. Math is not just the foundation for careers in science or engineering; it is the pillar of a well-rounded foundation for every child.

Strongest predictor for later success

Want to predict your child’s success as they grow older? Your child’s math skills will be the best gauge.

In a 2007 study on 35,000 preschoolers across the US, Canada, and England, early maths skills was found to be the strongest predictive power for later success. Researchers used three key predictors for later success: school-entry academic, attention skills, socioemotional skills. The result? Learning math skills at an early stage came out as the strongest predictor.

Children become better readers, writers and communicators

If you had to choose between literacy and math for your child to do well in school, which would you choose?

This might come as a surprise, but learning mathematics does not just help children to develop their confidence and basic foundation to succeed in math, it also supports the development of literacy.

When they are able to communicate effectively in and with mathematics, it deepens their mathematical understanding and develops their linguistic fluency such as oral language abilities, vocabulary, critical thinking and grammar complexity. So if your child is exposed to math at a young age, chances are they will be likely to excel in their language too.

Right exposure and support

So how can you ensure that your child has a good understanding of math concepts and skills at a young age?

Give them the right exposure.

Mathematical concepts are built one upon another in a logical, step-by-step progression. When your child is being pushed to learn addition and multiplication before understanding the relationships between numerals and quantities, they may end up memorising math facts.

But when they are exposed to activities according to their ability and developmental level, they can move naturally from one level to the next. They flourish best in linguistically rich and culturally meaningful mathematical activities.

Next, provide them with the right support.

When children are placed in rich learning environments with proper stimulation, guidance and feedback, they are better able to exercise their knowledge and skills. This support can come from yourself, from high-quality early math programs and motivated teachers.

Start early, before it’s too late