A1 Journal article (refereed)
The Development of Early Mathematical Skills : A Theoretical Framework for a Holistic Model (2019)


Parviainen, P. (2019). The Development of Early Mathematical Skills : A Theoretical Framework for a Holistic Model. Journal of Early Childhood Education Research, 8(1), 162-191. https://journal.fi/jecer/article/view/114110


JYU authors or editors


Publication details

All authors or editorsParviainen, Piia

Journal or seriesJournal of Early Childhood Education Research

eISSN2323-7414

Publication year2019

Volume8

Issue number1

Pages range162-191

PublisherSuomen Varhaiskasvatus ry.

Publication countryFinland

Publication languageEnglish

Persistent website addresshttps://journal.fi/jecer/article/view/114110

Publication open accessOpenly available

Publication channel open accessOpen Access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX)https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/65818


Abstract

This article presents a theoretical framework for a holistic model of the development of early mathematical skills in early childhood education. The first aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive international review of the literature to explore early mathematical skills categories. The literature review yielded three early mathematical skills categories, namely (1) numerical skills, (2) spatial thinking skills and (3) mathematical thinking and reasoning skills. Previous studies have shown that several mathematical skills develop gradually and simultaneously in early ages and that these skills areas are interconnected in mathematical skills learning. Accordingly, the second aim of this study was to build a holistic theoretical model illustrating the interconnections between the three developing skills categories. The mathematical skills gained in early childhood influence later mathematical achievement. Thus, the importance of simultaneous strengthening of versatile early mathematical skills through conscious early learning practices should be addressed in early mathematical learning.


Keywordschildren (age groups)mathematical skillsnumerical literacymathematical thinkinginferenceproblem solvinglearningearly childhood education and care

Free keywordsearly mathematical skills; numerical skills; spatial thinking skills; mathematical thinking and reasoning skills; holistic model of early mathematical skills


Contributing organizations


Ministry reportingYes

Reporting Year2019

JUFO rating1


Last updated on 2024-11-03 at 14:25