Importance of teaching numbers to young children

Written on 11th July, 2023

What do children learn from numbers

Develop the skill of breaking down a number

Learning Numbers is a crucial part of every child’s education. Numbers are an integral part of our daily lives and understanding them is essential for basic activities like telling the time, measuring, and counting money. In this article, we will explore the importance of children learning numbers and the benefits that come with it.

1. Numbers Are Fundamental

Numbers are a fundamental aspect of life. From the moment we wake up in the morning, we are surrounded by numbers. Whether we are checking the time, counting our steps, or measuring ingredients for breakfast, numbers play a vital role in our daily routine. Without a basic understanding of numbers, it can be challenging to navigate the world around us.

2. Numbers Are Used in Everyday Life

As we have mentioned, numbers are used in our everyday lives. We use them to tell the time, measure ingredients, count money, and keep track of schedules. In addition, numbers are used in more complex activities like calculating taxes, measuring distances, and analysing data.

Children who have a strong foundation in numbers will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of everyday life. They will be able to complete basic tasks with ease and will have the skills necessary to tackle more complex problems.

3. Numbers Are Essential for Success in School

A solid understanding of numbers is essential for success in school. From simple addition and subtraction in primary school to more complex algebra and geometry in secondary school, numbers are an integral part of the curriculum.

Children who struggle with numbers may find it challenging to keep up with their peers in school. This can lead to frustration and a lack of confidence in their abilities. On the other hand, children who have a strong foundation in numbers will be better equipped to succeed in school and will have the confidence necessary to tackle challenging problems.

4. Numbers Help Develop Logical Thinking Skills

Numbers help develop logical thinking skills. When children learn numbers, they are learning to recognise patterns and understand relationships between numbers. This understanding is essential for more advanced math skills like algebra and calculus.

In addition, working with numbers requires children to use logic and critical thinking skills. They must analyse problems and come up with solutions based on their understanding of numbers. These skills are essential for success in a wide range of fields, including science, engineering, and technology.

5. Numbers Help Develop Problem-Solving Skills

Working with numbers helps children develop problem-solving skills. They must analyse problems, identify patterns, and develop solutions based on their understanding of numbers. This type of problem-solving requires critical thinking and logical reasoning skills, which are essential for success in a wide range of fields.

In addition, learning numbers teaches children to persevere in the face of challenges. They learn that sometimes there is no easy solution to a problem, and that they must keep trying until they find a solution. This type of resilience is essential for success in all areas of life.

6. Numbers Foster Creativity

Numbers may seem like a purely logical and analytical subject, but they can also foster creativity. When children learn numbers, they are exposed to a wide range of patterns, shapes, and relationships. This exposure can inspire creativity and help children see the world in new ways.

In addition, working with numbers requires children to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems. This type of creativity is essential for success in fields like art, design, and music.

7. Numbers Help Develop Basic Math Skills

Numbers are the foundation of basic math skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These skills are essential for success in school and in everyday life.

Children who have a strong foundation in numbers will be better equipped to master basic math skills. They will be able to perform simple calculations quickly and accurately, which will help them succeed in more complex math problems.

8. Numbers Help Develop Financial Literacy

Numbers are a fundamental aspect of financial literacy. Financial literacy refers to the ability to understand and manage personal finances, including budgeting, saving, and investing. Here are some ways that numbers help develop financial literacy:

1. Budgeting

Budgeting is a critical aspect of financial literacy. Budgeting involves tracking income and expenses and creating a plan for how to spend money. Numbers are essential for budgeting because they allow individuals to calculate how much money they have, how much they are spending, and how much they need to save.

By understanding basic math skills like addition, subtraction, and multiplication, individuals can create a budget that is realistic and effective. They can use numbers to calculate how much money they need to set aside for bills, groceries, and other expenses. They can also use numbers to track their spending and adjust their budget as needed.

2. Saving

Saving is another critical aspect of financial literacy. Saving involves setting aside money for future expenses, emergencies, and retirement. Numbers are essential for saving because they allow individuals to calculate how much money they need to save each month to reach their goals.

By understanding basic math skills like percentages and interest rates, individuals can calculate how much money they need to save to reach their financial goals. They can also use numbers to track their progress and adjust their savings plan as needed.

3. Investing

Investing is an important aspect of financial literacy for those who want to grow their wealth over time. Investing involves putting money into stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments to generate returns over time. Numbers are essential for investing because they allow individuals to calculate the potential returns and risks of different investment options.

By understanding basic math skills like compound interest and percentages, individuals can calculate the potential returns of different investment options. They can also use numbers to track the performance of their investments and adjust their portfolio as needed.

4. Understanding Credit

Understanding credit is another critical aspect of financial literacy. Credit refers to borrowing money and paying it back over time with interest. Numbers are essential for understanding credit because they allow individuals to calculate interest rates, minimum payments, and other aspects of credit.

By understanding basic math skills like percentages and interest rates, individuals can calculate the costs of borrowing money and make informed decisions about when to use credit. They can also use numbers to track their credit score and take steps to improve it over time.

In conclusion, numbers are essential for developing financial literacy. By understanding basic math skills, individuals can create a budget, save for the future, invest their money, and manage credit effectively. By developing these skills, individuals can take control of their finances and build a secure financial future for themselves and their families.