How Many Dots? : Using creativity while counting and quantifying
Counting is not as natural of a process for young children as many adults expect it to be. Counting takes a lot of cognitive work for a young child, especially since it can be so abstract. Young children are tactile learners, which is why it is important to make counting a fun physical process.
While counting may not be a natural process for young children, they definitely seek to make sense of the world around them. Posing counting as a way to better understand what children are experiencing or creating makes the learning fun!
An exciting way to engage young children in counting is through art! You can start by creating a dot on a clear sheet of paper. After creating the dot, ask your child, "What do you think this dot id going to be?" Make sure to acknowledge their answer. Continue this process adding more and more dots. After a few more dots have been added comment by saying, "wait a minute, how many dots do I have?"
Begin modeling counting with your child. Make sure to touch each dot as you count them. Once you have counted all of your dots, repeat the last number stating how many dots you have. Then have your child repeat the same process of drawing their own dots and counting them as they create their own picture.
If your child miscounts their dots, provide them with a gentle redirection by simple restating the proper number and continue counting with them. Providing lots of opportunities to count and quantify is the goal, that way children will feel confident in their skills and grow them naturally over time.
Remember, it is the process that we are focused on; not the product. Make sure to take time to discuss your child's drawing. Ask them to explain what they drew and ask about what other details they might want to add to their artwork. If they add several other designs, feel free to count how many of that design they put on the page as well.
While counting may not be a natural process for young children, they definitely seek to make sense of the world around them. Posing counting as a way to better understand what children are experiencing or creating makes the learning fun!
An exciting way to engage young children in counting is through art! You can start by creating a dot on a clear sheet of paper. After creating the dot, ask your child, "What do you think this dot id going to be?" Make sure to acknowledge their answer. Continue this process adding more and more dots. After a few more dots have been added comment by saying, "wait a minute, how many dots do I have?"
Begin modeling counting with your child. Make sure to touch each dot as you count them. Once you have counted all of your dots, repeat the last number stating how many dots you have. Then have your child repeat the same process of drawing their own dots and counting them as they create their own picture.
If your child miscounts their dots, provide them with a gentle redirection by simple restating the proper number and continue counting with them. Providing lots of opportunities to count and quantify is the goal, that way children will feel confident in their skills and grow them naturally over time.
Remember, it is the process that we are focused on; not the product. Make sure to take time to discuss your child's drawing. Ask them to explain what they drew and ask about what other details they might want to add to their artwork. If they add several other designs, feel free to count how many of that design they put on the page as well.
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