Nursery World - Count on it (1)

Stories can be the basis for fun role-play activities and games that enhance children's knowledge of mathematical concepts and language There are many valid reasons for using stories as a starting point for mathematical development. Telling or reading a story to children creates a shared context that they all can understand, it stimulates their imagination and it draws them into the world of 'let's pretend'.

There are many valid reasons for using stories as a starting point for mathematical development. Telling or reading a story to children creates a shared context that they all can understand, it stimulates their imagination and it draws them into the world of 'let's pretend'.

While all stories contain some possibilities for enhancing mathematical development, some create a particularly purposeful and enjoyable context in which to explore the many facets of mathematics, including problem solving.

John Burningham's The Shopping Basket is one such book.

In the story, Steven is asked to run an errand to the corner shop but, on his way home, he is accosted by a variety of unusual animals. Each demands his shopping, but Steven manages to outwit them all and make his way home.

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