Mathematical Moments

The ECMG mathematical moments are a growing collection of cameos which provide situated examples of mathematics pedagogy. They demonstrate the importance of exploring the mathematics in children’s everyday experiences at home and in educational settings.

Each moment exemplifies how mathematics is meaningful to the child and sustains their interests, positive attitudes and mathematical well-being. These moments aim to exemplify how opportunities to learn, develop and enjoy being mathematical exist within children’s everyday lives including through play.  Daily moments where children explicitly engage with mathematical concepts and language are invaluable to ensure that all children are empowered to become mathematically confident.  Through their caring and secure relationship with the child, adults can sensitively support learning, drawing attention to the mathematics in the situation and encouraging children to think mathematically and solve problems.

The ECMG mathematical moments are arranged in broad age bands: it is important to recognise that each child is unique and learns in their own way so these bands are merely indicative. They provide grounded examples of areas commonly found in curriculum and assessment documents, demonstrating age appropriate mathematics practice for adults working with young children.  The moments can be used as a stimulus for individual reflection or as a discussion point in professional development contexts.  They might also be used as examples of effective mathematics practice to share between practitioners or with families.