early literacy and numeracy tuition

[sunbob]

Does anyone know of any little classes for 3-4 year olds? We haven't got a place at a school nursery, where I know they would be making a start on this kind of thing. thanks.

[Fuschia]

Magic moments cr?che got mine started in writing, learnt all their shapes Which is part of early numeracy

[BB100]

Children in nursery are not given formal literacy and numeracy teaching until they are at least 5. Learning is through structured play because they learn at a higher level through play than direct instruction.

As a parent there is much you can do to teach your child which will lay down the foundations for life-long learning. Firstly, a love of books comes before reading. Libraries usually have story sessions you can attend with your child. Singing songs together will help your child develop language and an understanding of rhyme. Playing with different sounds (instruments, listening to the birds, playing what and where the sound comes from games, etc) is important to learning phonics and is a step that should not be skipped or rushed.

For numeracy, have a look around your home and get your child to find the different shapes: round mirror, rectangle table, etc. To introduce 3D shapes: play with some bubbles (spheres), buy some jelly tots to enjoy (cubes). Play shops with real money, look at patterns on fabrics, sort things in colour order, count everyday things such as conkers, smarties, weigh ingredients to do simple cooking. Make everything a learning opportunity for your child and you will be his/her best teacher.