This groundbreaking book looks at the development of mathematical thinking in infants and toddlers, with an emphasis on the earliest stage, from zero to three, when mathematical thinking and problem solving first emerge as natural instincts. The text explores the four precursor math concepts-Attribute, Comparison, Change, and Pattern-with an emphasis on how development occurs when it is nurtured by loving knowledgeable others. The authors call this the CAIR principle: Closely Attend & Intentionally Respond. Sharing their stories of working with a wide range of zero to three caregivers and educators, the authors stress the difference between arithmetic skills and their definition of mathematics as "a logical way of thinking that allows for increasing precision." Each user-friendly chapter includes suggestions for highly effective practices that are embedded into everyday interactions and routines. Early care providers can use this resource to develop young children's interest in mathematics, ensuring that they are ready for the big ideas they will encounter in preschool.Book Features: Combines the most current research on infant and toddler cognitive development in relation to mathematical thinking. Offers concrete ways to help caregivers and professionals draw out the math that is all around us. Blends three domains of human development-social-emotional, physical, and cognitive. Examines the What, Who, and How of each precursor concept, with authentic anecdotes and "What the Research Says" sections.

Growing Mathematical Minds is the documentation of an innovative, bi-directional process of connecting research and practice in early childhood mathematics. The book translates research on early mathematics from developmental psychology into terms that are meaningful to teachers and readily applicable in early childhood classrooms. It documents teacher responses, and conveys their thoughts and questions back to representative researchers, who reply in turn. In so doing, this highly useful book creates a conversation, in which researchers and teachers each bring their expertise to bear; their communication about these topics-informed by the thinking, commitment, and experience of both groups-helps us better understand how developmental psychology can improve math teaching, and how math teaching can, in turn, inform developmental science. The book bridges the gap between research and practice, helping teachers to adopt evidence-based practices and apply cutting-edge research findings, and prompting developmental researchers to consider their work within the framework of practice. Growing Mathematical Minds identifies and elucidates research with profound implications for teaching children from three to eight years so they develop foundational math knowledge and skills, positive attitudes toward math, and basic abilities to think mathematically.

Growing Mathematical Minds is the documentation of an innovative, bi-directional process of connecting research and practice in early childhood mathematics. The book translates research on early mathematics from developmental psychology into terms that are meaningful to teachers and readily applicable in early childhood classrooms. It documents teacher responses, and conveys their thoughts and questions back to representative researchers, who reply in turn. In so doing, this highly useful book creates a conversation, in which researchers and teachers each bring their expertise to bear; their communication about these topics-informed by the thinking, commitment, and experience of both groups-helps us better understand how developmental psychology can improve math teaching, and how math teaching can, in turn, inform developmental science. The book bridges the gap between research and practice, helping teachers to adopt evidence-based practices and apply cutting-edge research findings, and prompting developmental researchers to consider their work within the framework of practice. Growing Mathematical Minds identifies and elucidates research with profound implications for teaching children from three to eight years so they develop foundational math knowledge and skills, positive attitudes toward math, and basic abilities to think mathematically.