The role of mathematics education in child development. How mathematics shapes the mind

It is obvious to almost everyone that mathematical skills are useful in life. In particular, they need to be nurtured at school age, where our knowledge in this area is systematically tested and assessed. However, it is true that mathematics is not only useful for getting good grades on a certificate. Mathematical skills also go hand in hand with other skills, such as logical, critical and analytical thinking, solving problems less easily and making decisions more easily. Why else does mathematics education support children’s development? 

Beginnings in mathematics education in children

It is important that children are exposed to issues from the world of mathematics from an early age. This will help them to develop properly and also prevent problems with the subject in later years. At pre-school age, we should ensure that children master areas such as: 

  • Spatial orientation
  • Rhythms
  • Classification of objects
  • Counting by equal measure
  • Intuitive notion of harvesting and related

Insofar as children assimilate the issues mentioned at a young age, it will be easier to make their thought processes more flexible and produce primary associations, which are the basis for abstract thinking.

Why is children’s mathematical development so important?

Unfortunately, in the early stages of a child’s development, parents and teachers often focus on developing skills such as reading and writing, while mathematics education often remains in the background. This is quite a mistake, as the child may be missing out on a lot. What does mathematics education help children to achieve? 

Mathematics supports thought processes

Learning mathematics can be compared to regular training. Just as physical exercise strengthens the body and muscles, solving mathematical problems supports the quality of thinking, cognitive functions and broadens horizons. With properly conducted mathematics education, the child learns how to observe the world and draw out the most important information, analyse and systematise knowledge, see cause and effect relationships, draw conclusions and think strategically. 

Mathematics education and memory

Scientists proved some time ago that solving mathematical problems supports memory processes. Particularly at a young age, where the mind is developing intensively, it is important to take care of the formation of the cognitive functions that are necessary to function in the big world. 

The benefits of learning mathematics 

Mathematics helps in everyday life. The ability to solve problems in mathematics is closely linked to the ability to solve life problems. People with a high ability to think analytically cope better in life and also find it easier to make decisions. After all, they do not have to wonder whether to follow their heart or their reason, because this question, to them, seems obvious.

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