Learning how to teach preschool math starts with engaging preschool math activities that nurture curiosity and build a strong foundation for future skills. A balanced mix of structured lessons and play-based experiences allow children to explore math in meaningful ways. But wondering how to make it all happen? Then you’re in the right place.
Developing mathematics skills begin long before children enter formal schooling. This is why choosing out which preschool math activities to include in your lesson plans are all the more important.
In fact, preschool and toddler aged children are constantly playing with math. They naturally sort and organize. They build and design. These are mathematical skills children have a natural interest in and their beginning development comes through the very natural act of playing.
It is all good and well to say that math skills develop naturally, but young children also benefit from purposeful preschool math activities.=
Math Concepts for Preschoolers
Teaching math to preschoolers isn’t about doing endless preschool math worksheets. Learning activities should be hands-on and engaging, while targeting important number skills.
But preschool mathematics is more than just teaching counting and number identification. There are five disciplines in mathematics, which are taught in the following units:
You might be thinking, “Seriously, I supposed to teach algebra to preschoolers?!”
Well, yes, but if you stop to think about it, teaching all five disciplines is easier than you think. And it is easy to make it developmentally appropriate for preschoolers, too! And, it is completely necessary for a complete and well-rounded preschool education.
Disciplines of Math Examples in Early Childhood
Think about it like this: the following are some basic strands within each discipline.
- counting, number identification, addition and subtraction (number sense)
- patterns, comparing and sorting (algebra)
- shape identification, shape differentiation (geometry)
- comparing sizes, lengths and weights (measurement)
- graphing, simple estimation (data analysis)
It may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. The instruction in all five disciplines is absolutely necessary to give preschoolers the best beginning possible in mathematics.
Need a better idea of how to teach preschool math? Or what kind of preschool math activities you should include? Grab a free checklist at the end of the post.
Read this: Preschool Math Lesson Plans – What You Need to Know.
How to Teach Math to Preschoolers
The greatest success in teaching math to preschoolers is always met by using a systematic and sequential math lesson plan. Such a plan should encompass the five disciplines of math, which are number sense, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis.
A structured, systematic approach to teaching preschool math sets the stage for strong, lasting skills. When lessons are explicit and follow a clear sequence, children master one concept before moving to the next.
Instead of random exposure to math ideas, a well-planned curriculum ensures that essential skills—like counting, sorting, measuring, and recognizing patterns—are introduced in a logical way. This approach helps kids make connections between concepts, reinforcing their understanding and making math feel more natural. With a solid, step-by-step plan, preschoolers develop the foundation they need to tackle more advanced math with ease.
Pre K Math Skills Checklist
Take the guesswork out of how to teach math with this free preschool math skills checklist. Just click the image and a pdf will be sent to your email.
Teaching Pre Math
At Stay At Home Educator, we believe a structured and systematic approach to teaching pre-K math lays the foundation for long-term success. Instead of exposing children to math concepts randomly, an explicit and well-sequenced curriculum helps them build confidence and understanding step by step.
A structured math plan ensures that each skill is reinforced before moving on to the next, preventing gaps in learning. This approach not only strengthens all math concept areas but also makes math feel natural and engaging.
Check out these resources about how to teach math to preschoolers:
- Fun and Engaging Math Curriculum for Preschoolers
- The Ultimate Guide to PreK Lesson Plans
- A Guide to Teaching PreK Math Skills
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FAQ About Teaching Math to Preschoolers
The best approach is a balance of structured, sequential lessons and hands-on, play-based activities. Teaching math in a systematic way ensures children build foundational skills step by step. Engaging activities like counting objects, sorting, and patterning make learning fun and meaningful.
Preschoolers as young as two or three can begin learning early math concepts through everyday experiences. Simple activities like counting toys, identifying shapes, and sorting objects introduce math naturally. The key is to make learning playful and age-appropriate so children stay engaged.
Preschoolers should develop number sense, counting skills, basic addition and subtraction concepts, shape recognition, sorting, patterning, measurement, and graphing. These foundational skills help build problem-solving abilities and logical thinking. A well-rounded math curriculum includes these topics in a structured and engaging way.
The five key areas are number sense, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis. These concepts provide a strong foundation for early math learning and future problem-solving skills. A well-structured preschool math program ensures children explore each of these areas through engaging activities.
Incorporate math into daily routines, like counting steps, sorting laundry, or identifying shapes around the house. Play simple math games, read counting books, and encourage problem-solving through real-life situations. Making math a natural part of everyday life helps children develop confidence and a strong foundation for future learning.
