Numeracy development in young children is a crucial aspect of their overall growth and learning. As parents and caregivers, it is essential to understand the milestones and appropriate expectations for a 3-year-old when it comes to counting. Although every child develops at their own pace, having a general understanding of the skills and abilities that typically occur at this age can help guide and support their early numeracy development.
Counting is not just about reciting numbers in sequence; it involves comprehending and associating numbers with quantity. At the age of 3, most children begin to understand the concept of counting and can recite numbers up to 10 or even higher. However, it is important to acknowledge that counting accuracy and understanding may vary among individuals. By recognizing the milestones and providing suitable learning opportunities, parents and caregivers can foster a strong foundation for numeracy skills and encourage their child’s continued growth and development in this critical area.
Milestones for counting at age 3
Counting objects up to 5
At the age of 3, children typically begin to demonstrate the ability to count objects up to five. This milestone is an important foundation for developing numeracy skills. Parents and caregivers can help foster this skill by providing opportunities for counting various objects in their everyday environment. For example, while playing with blocks, parents can encourage their child to count each block as they stack them.
Recognizing numbers 1-10
Another milestone at the age of 3 is the ability to recognize numbers 1-10. Children may not be able to write or recite the numbers accurately at this stage, but they can start associating the written symbols with the corresponding quantities. Parents can engage their child in activities such as pointing to and naming numbers in books or on toys to help them develop this skill.
Understanding one-to-one correspondence
The concept of one-to-one correspondence is crucial for counting accurately. At age 3, children begin to understand that each object should be counted only once and that each number corresponds to one object. Parents can reinforce this understanding through activities like counting out snacks or toys during playtime, ensuring that the child counts each item only once.
Overall, these milestones provide a solid foundation for early numeracy development in 3-year-olds. It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of these milestones and actively support their child’s numeracy skills.
Building a foundation for numeracy development
To further support a child’s numeracy development, parents can incorporate various strategies and activities into their daily routines:
Introducing numbers through daily routines and activities
Parents can seize opportunities in everyday activities to introduce numbers to their child. For example, when setting the table for dinner, they can ask the child to count how many plates or forks are needed. This helps the child understand that numbers are relevant and useful in their daily life.
Engaging in number-related games and play
Playing games that involve numbers can be a fun way for children to practice their counting skills. Parents can play simple board games that involve counting spaces or use dice with dots to count the number of steps to move. These activities not only reinforce counting but also promote social interaction and critical thinking.
Incorporating counting into storytelling and books
Reading books and storytelling provide opportunities for parents to incorporate counting. Parents can ask the child to count certain objects or animals in the story, enhancing their number recognition skills in an enjoyable and interactive way.
By incorporating these strategies into their daily interactions, parents can help build a strong foundation for numeracy development in their 3-year-old child.
Building a Foundation for Numeracy Development
A. Introducing numbers through daily routines and activities
At the age of 3, children are highly receptive to learning new concepts, including numbers. Parents can begin to lay the groundwork for numeracy development by incorporating numbers into their child’s daily routines and activities. For example, counting how many steps they take while climbing the stairs or counting the number of toys they have during playtime can help familiarize them with numbers and their order. By integrating numbers into everyday activities, children will begin to associate them with meaningful experiences, making them more likely to grasp the concept.
B. Engaging in number-related games and play
Play is an essential part of a child’s development, and it can play a significant role in early numeracy development as well. Parents can engage their 3-year-olds in number-related games and activities to make learning fun and enjoyable. Simple games like “I Spy” or “Counting Objects in a Jar” can help children practice their counting skills while having a great time. Additionally, incorporating number-themed toys and puzzles into playtime can further reinforce their understanding of numbers.
C. Incorporating counting into storytelling and books
Storytelling and reading books together provide excellent opportunities to introduce and reinforce counting skills. Parents can choose books that incorporate counting or have numerical themes, such as “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed” or “Ten Apples Up on Top.” As they read, parents can encourage their child to count the objects or characters mentioned in the story. This interactive approach not only helps with counting but also enhances language skills and comprehension.
By engaging in daily routines, playtime activities, and storytelling with a focus on numbers, parents can create a strong foundation for numeracy development in their 3-year-old child. These activities not only enhance counting skills but also foster a love for numbers and curiosity about math.
Tips for Parents to Support Numeracy Development
A. Creating a math-rich environment at home
To support the numeracy development of a 3-year-old, it is crucial to create a math-rich environment at home. This can be done by incorporating numbers and counting into everyday activities. For example, parents can label objects with numbers or use number-themed decorations in the child’s room. This constant exposure to numbers and mathematical concepts will help familiarize the child with numeracy from an early age.
B. Providing ample opportunities for counting and number recognition
Parents can provide their 3-year-olds with ample opportunities to practice counting and number recognition. They can use toys, blocks, or other objects to engage the child in counting exercises. Additionally, parents can ask their child to identify numbers in their surroundings, such as on street signs or grocery items. By consistently practicing these skills, children will develop a better understanding of numbers and their sequence.
C. Using real-life examples to reinforce counting skills
One effective way to support numeracy development is by using real-life examples to reinforce counting skills. Parents can involve their child in daily activities such as setting the table or sorting laundry, encouraging them to count the number of plates or socks. This practical approach helps children connect counting with real-world scenarios, making it more meaningful and applicable.
By implementing these tips, parents can effectively support their 3-year-old’s numeracy development. It is essential to remember that every child learns at their own pace, so patience and encouragement are key. Celebrating small milestones and progress will motivate children to continue exploring and learning about numbers.
Remember, numeracy skills extend beyond counting. Children should also be exposed to other math concepts like shapes, patterns, and measurement. By introducing basic math vocabulary and fostering a positive attitude towards math as a lifelong skill, parents can lay a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
It is also important for parents to balance screen time and offline activities. While technology-based learning tools can be valuable resources, hands-on activities provide a more well-rounded numeracy development. Setting boundaries for screen time and monitoring usage ensures that children have a balanced approach to learning.
Collaboration between parents and teachers is crucial. Communicating with teachers to align numeracy goals, sharing strategies and activities for reinforcement at home, and maintaining open lines of communication for ongoing support ensures that children receive consistent and comprehensive numeracy education.
In conclusion, supporting a child’s numeracy development at an early age is crucial for their overall mathematical success. By creating a math-rich environment, providing opportunities for counting and number recognition, using real-life examples, and fostering a love for math, parents can lay a strong foundation for their child’s numeracy skills. Remember to celebrate progress, seek additional support if needed, and inspire a curiosity about numbers that will last a lifetime.
Importance of Repetition and Practice
Reinforcing Counting Skills through Daily Practice
The fifth section of this article focuses on the importance of repetition and practice in developing counting skills in 3-year-olds. While milestones and foundational activities are crucial, consistent practice is what helps children solidify their understanding of numbers and counting.
Daily practice provides opportunities for children to reinforce their counting skills and build fluency. Parents can incorporate counting into daily routines, such as counting the number of steps they take or the number of items they see while grocery shopping. By consistently engaging in counting activities, children begin to internalize the concept of numbers and develop a strong foundation for future mathematical understanding.
Using Visual Aids and Manipulatives for Hands-On Learning
Visual aids and manipulatives offer valuable support in reinforcing counting skills. Parents can use objects like counting bears, blocks, or buttons to help their child physically count and visualize quantities. These concrete objects not only make counting more tangible but also provide children with a hands-on learning experience. By manipulating objects and physically counting them, children develop a deeper understanding of one-to-one correspondence and number sense.
Additionally, visual aids like flashcards, number charts, or number lines can assist in reinforcing number recognition and sequencing. These visual representations allow children to see the relationship between numbers and their placement in a sequence. By repeatedly using visual aids and manipulatives, children strengthen their ability to recognize and understand numbers.
Encouraging the Child to Count Items in Their Surroundings
Children naturally encounter numerous opportunities for counting in their surroundings. Encouraging them to count everyday objects or items in their environment helps reinforce their counting skills. Whether it is counting the number of toys in a room or the number of trees in a park, parents can prompt their child to count and discuss the quantities they observe. This process not only strengthens their counting abilities but also enhances their ability to apply numbers to real-life situations.
By engaging in daily practice, using visual aids and manipulatives, and encouraging counting in their surroundings, parents can effectively support their 3-year-old’s numeracy development. Repetition and practice play a crucial role in solidifying counting skills, allowing children to establish a strong foundation for future math success.
The next section of this article will explore the role of counting in problem-solving skills and provide tips for fostering logical thinking through counting activities.
Encouraging problem-solving skills through counting
A. Introducing simple counting puzzles and games
At the age of 3, children are developing their problem-solving skills, and counting can be a great tool to further enhance this cognitive ability. Introducing simple counting puzzles and games can engage their curiosity and critical thinking abilities.
Parents can provide their child with age-appropriate counting puzzles that require them to count objects or match numbers. These activities not only improve their counting skills but also promote logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. For example, a puzzle with different colored animals can require the child to count and match the correct number of animals to their corresponding colors.
B. Promoting logical thinking and reasoning through counting challenges
Counting challenges can help children develop their logical thinking and reasoning skills. These challenges can vary from simple to complex depending on the child’s abilities. Parents can create counting challenges such as asking their child to count objects in a picture or arranging objects in a specific order.
For instance, parents can ask their child to count the number of cars they see in a parking lot or to arrange their toys in ascending order according to their size. These activities encourage the child to think critically, use their counting skills, and make logical decisions.
C. Helping the child understand and solve problems using numbers
Parents can support their child’s numeracy development by helping them understand how numbers can be used to solve problems. They can pose real-life scenarios to the child and encourage them to find solutions using their counting skills.
For example, parents can ask their child how many cookies they would need to share with their friends or how many toys they have left after giving some to their sibling. This not only reinforces the child’s counting abilities but also teaches them the practical application of numbers in everyday situations.
By incorporating counting into problem-solving activities, parents can foster their child’s critical thinking and mathematical reasoning skills. These skills will benefit them not only in numeracy development but also in various aspects of their academic and personal lives.
Overall, encouraging problem-solving skills through counting at the age of 3 allows children to develop their logical thinking, reasoning abilities, and practical application of numbers. By introducing simple counting puzzles and games, promoting logical thinking through challenges, and helping the child understand and solve problems using numbers, parents can facilitate their child’s overall numeracy development.
Fun and engaging activities for numeracy development
A. Creating counting scavenger hunts
At age 3, children are naturally curious and love exploring their surroundings. Creating counting scavenger hunts can be a fun way to engage their numeracy skills while keeping them entertained. In this activity, parents can create a list of items for the child to find and count. For example, they can ask the child to find and count five red objects or three objects that start with the letter “C.” This activity not only helps children practice counting, but also encourages their observation and problem-solving abilities.
B. Playing number recognition games
Number recognition games are an interactive way to improve a child’s ability to identify and recognize numbers. Parents can use flashcards with numbers written on them and ask the child to identify the numbers as quickly as possible. Another fun game is “number hopscotch,” where parents draw a hopscotch grid on the ground and replace the traditional squares with numbers. The child then has to jump on the numbers in the correct order, reinforcing their ability to recognize and sequence numbers.
C. Using technology-based learning tools for counting practice
Technology can be a valuable resource for numeracy development. There are numerous apps and websites that provide interactive games and activities specifically designed for young children to practice counting. These tools often incorporate engaging visuals and colorful characters to make the learning experience more enjoyable. However, it is important to use technology in moderation and ensure it is balanced with hands-on activities and offline play.
By incorporating these fun and engaging activities into a child’s daily routine, parents can further enhance their numeracy development. It is important to remember that every child is unique and may have different preferences and learning styles. It may take some trial and error to find the activities that resonate most with the child, but the key is to make learning fun and interactive. With consistent support and encouragement, parents can help their 3-year-olds build a strong foundation in numeracy skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Addressing Challenges and Difficulties
A. Understanding Common Misconceptions About Counting
Counting is a fundamental skill in numeracy development, but it can also be accompanied by common misconceptions that children may encounter. As parents and caregivers, it is important to be aware of these misconceptions and address them proactively.
One common misconception is the belief that counting involves reciting numbers in a specific order without understanding their meaning. For example, a child may be able to say numbers from one to ten but struggle to associate each number with a quantity or object. To overcome this, it is crucial to provide real-life examples and experiences that help children connect numbers to the world around them. This could include counting toys during playtime or counting items at the grocery store.
Another misconception is the idea that counting always starts from one. Some children may not understand that counting can begin at any number and progress in sequential order. Introducing number lines or counting charts can be helpful in illustrating this concept and allowing children to practice counting from various starting points.
B. Patience and Support During the Learning Process
Developing counting skills takes time and patience, as every child learns at their own pace. It is important for parents to provide a supportive and encouraging environment during the learning process. This can be done by celebrating small milestones and progress, no matter how small they may seem.
When a child struggles with counting, it is important to remain patient and avoid rushing or pressuring them. Instead, use positive reinforcement and offer assistance when needed. For instance, if a child is having difficulty counting a set of objects, parents can provide prompts or visual aids to help them count accurately.
C. Seeking Professional Help if Necessary
While it is common for children to face challenges in numeracy development, some difficulties may require professional intervention. If a child consistently struggles with counting skills or exhibits significant delays compared to their peers, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a qualified educator or specialist.
These professionals can conduct assessments to identify any underlying learning difficulties or developmental delays that may be hindering numeracy development. They can also provide personalized strategies and interventions to address specific challenges and support the child’s progress.
In conclusion, addressing challenges and difficulties in numeracy development is an important aspect of supporting a child’s early counting skills. By understanding common misconceptions about counting, being patient and supportive, and seeking professional help when necessary, parents can help their child overcome obstacles and nurture their numeracy abilities effectively.
## Recognizing individual differences in numeracy development
### A. Understanding that children may reach milestones at different ages
Every child develops at their own pace, including their numeracy skills. It is important for parents to understand that children may reach counting milestones at different ages. While some 3-year-olds may already be proficient in counting objects up to 5 and recognizing numbers 1-10, others may still be working on these skills. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid comparing one child’s progress to another and instead focus on their individual growth.
### B. Tailoring activities and exercises to the child’s unique needs and abilities
To support a child’s numeracy development, it is essential to tailor activities and exercises to their unique needs and abilities. Some children may benefit from more hands-on learning experiences, while others may excel with visual aids or technology-based tools. Observing a child’s preferences and learning style can help parents customize their approach and provide activities that cater to their strengths.
For example, if a child is more tactile, incorporating manipulatives like counting blocks or toys can make counting more enjoyable and accessible. On the other hand, if a child is more visually inclined, using number flashcards or digital apps might be more engaging. By adapting activities to a child’s specific learning style, parents can create a learning environment that is most conducive to their child’s individual numeracy development.
### C. Celebrating progress and focusing on individual growth
Instead of solely focusing on milestones, it is crucial for parents to celebrate and acknowledge the progress their child makes along their numeracy journey. Small achievements, such as correctly counting a higher number of objects or recognizing numbers out of sequence, should be acknowledged and praised. This positive reinforcement creates a supportive environment that encourages the child to continue their numeracy development with confidence.
It is also important for parents to remember that numeracy development is a continuous process. While milestones provide a framework, they are not strict deadlines. By focusing on each child’s individual growth, parents can foster a love for math and create an atmosphere where children feel motivated to explore and learn about numbers at their own pace.
In conclusion, recognizing and respecting individual differences in numeracy development is vital to supporting a child’s learning journey. By understanding that children may reach milestones at different ages, tailoring activities to their unique needs and abilities, and celebrating their progress, parents can foster a positive and personalized numeracy learning experience for their child.
Balancing Screen Time and Offline Activities
A. Utilizing technology-based learning tools in moderation
In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives, including our children’s early learning experiences. While there are many educational apps and websites available to support numeracy development, it is important to use them in moderation. Screen time should never completely replace hands-on, offline activities.
Parents can choose high-quality, age-appropriate apps and websites that align with their child’s numeracy goals. These tools can provide interactive activities and games that make learning fun and engaging. However, it is crucial to set limits on screen time and ensure that it does not interfere with other essential aspects of a child’s development, such as physical play and social interactions.
B. Emphasizing hands-on activities for a well-rounded numeracy development
Hands-on activities play a vital role in a child’s numeracy development. Manipulating physical objects and engaging in real-life experiences help children understand mathematical concepts more deeply.
Parents can incorporate various hands-on activities into their child’s daily routine. They can use objects such as blocks, counting bears, or buttons to practice counting and sorting. Simple tasks like measuring ingredients while baking or setting the table can reinforce numeracy skills in a practical and meaningful way. Encouraging creativity through activities like drawing and building with different shapes also promotes spatial reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
C. Monitoring and setting boundaries for screen time
While technology can support numeracy development, it is essential to monitor and set boundaries for screen time. Too much passive screen time can hinder a child’s physical, cognitive, and social growth.
Parents should establish clear guidelines for screen time, taking into consideration the recommendations from experts. For example, limiting daily screen time to 30 minutes or an hour, and encouraging active and interactive use of technology, such as playing math-related games instead of passive watching. It is also important to create technology-free zones and times in the house to promote a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
In conclusion, while technology-based learning tools have their merits, they should be used in moderation to support a child’s numeracy development. Hands-on activities provide invaluable opportunities for children to explore mathematical concepts in a tangible way. By monitoring and setting boundaries for screen time, parents can ensure that their child’s numeracy development is well-rounded and balanced, combining the benefits of technology with the richness of real-life experiences.
Collaboration between Parents and Teachers
A. Communicating with teachers to align numeracy goals
Collaboration between parents and teachers is vital for the holistic development of a child’s numeracy skills. It is important for parents to maintain open lines of communication with their child’s teachers to ensure alignment of numeracy goals. By discussing the curriculum and expectations, parents can gain valuable insights on how to support their child’s numeracy development at home.
Parents should schedule regular meetings with teachers to discuss their child’s progress, areas of improvement, and strategies that can be implemented both at school and at home. This collaborative approach enables parents to reinforce numeracy skills learned in the classroom and extend the learning experience beyond school hours.
B. Sharing strategies and activities for reinforcement at home
Collaboration between parents and teachers also involves sharing effective strategies and activities that can be used to reinforce numeracy skills at home. Teachers can provide valuable resources, such as math games, worksheets, and online tools, that parents can incorporate into their child’s daily routines. By integrating these activities into everyday life, parents can create a math-rich environment that supports continuous numeracy development.
Additionally, parents can share their own strategies and activities that have proven successful in enhancing their child’s numeracy skills. This exchange of ideas fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between parents and teachers, allowing for a holistic approach to numeracy development.
C. Maintaining open lines of communication for ongoing support
Ongoing communication between parents and teachers is essential for providing continuous support to the child’s numeracy development. As the child progresses and encounters new challenges, it is important for parents to inform teachers and seek their guidance. Likewise, teachers can provide valuable feedback and suggestions to address any difficulties the child may be facing.
By maintaining open lines of communication, parents and teachers can work together to identify the child’s strengths and weaknesses and tailor their approach accordingly. This collaborative effort ensures that the child receives consistent support and guidance, both at home and in the classroom.
In conclusion, collaboration between parents and teachers plays a critical role in the numeracy development of a child. By communicating, sharing strategies, and maintaining open lines of communication, parents and teachers can work together to create a supportive learning environment that nurtures the child’s numeracy skills. This collaborative approach fosters a strong foundation in mathematics and sets the stage for lifelong mathematical success.
Understanding the importance of math beyond counting
A. Exploring other math concepts such as shapes, patterns, and measurement
At the age of three, children are ready to expand their understanding of math beyond counting. It is essential to introduce them to other important math concepts such as shapes, patterns, and measurement.
Shapes: Encouraging children to recognize and name different shapes aids in their cognitive development and spatial awareness. Through hands-on activities like building with blocks and using shape puzzles, children can learn to identify basic shapes such as circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles. This foundation will later help them in geometry and spatial reasoning.
Patterns: Identifying and creating patterns is an important skill for early math development. You can introduce patterns through simple activities like arranging objects in a specific sequence or using colored beads to create patterns. This not only helps in developing their critical thinking skills but also lays the groundwork for algebraic reasoning.
Measurement: Introducing measurement to young children can be done in a fun and interactive way. You can use everyday objects like spoons, cups, or blocks to compare sizes or introduce concepts of length, height, and weight. This early exposure to measurement can help children understand basic numerical relationships and develop the ability to make comparisons.
B. Introducing basic math vocabulary to enhance understanding
Along with exploring different math concepts, it is important to introduce basic math vocabulary to enhance a child’s understanding. By using terms like “big,” “small,” “long,” “short,” “heavy,” and “light” during everyday conversations and activities, you can help children develop a strong foundation of math language. This language development will support their future learning of more complex mathematical concepts and promote effective communication about math.
C. Fostering a positive attitude towards math as a lifelong skill
To ensure a child’s long-term success in math, it is crucial to foster a positive attitude towards the subject. Encourage children to view math as a fun and essential skill in their everyday lives rather than a daunting challenge. Praise their effort and progress, and celebrate their achievements in math-related activities. By promoting a positive attitude towards math, children are more likely to embrace and enjoy learning mathematical concepts as they grow older.
In conclusion, understanding the importance of math beyond counting at the age of three is vital for a child’s overall numeracy development. By introducing shapes, patterns, and measurement, as well as enhancing their math vocabulary, parents and educators can lay a strong foundation for future math learning. Additionally, fostering a positive attitude towards math will ensure that children approach mathematical challenges with confidence and enthusiasm.
Resources for further support and information
A. Reference to books, websites, or apps for early numeracy development
When it comes to supporting your child’s early numeracy development, there are a plethora of resources available to provide additional support and information. Books, websites, and apps can be valuable tools in helping your child build a strong foundation in mathematics. Here are some recommendations:
1. Books:
– “Math Fables: Lessons That Count” by Greg Tang: This book introduces counting and basic math concepts through engaging and entertaining stories.
– “Mouse Count” by Ellen Stoll Walsh: This interactive book takes children on a counting adventure with colorful illustrations and a catchy rhyming text.
– “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed” by Eileen Christelow: This classic counting book helps children practice counting backward as they join the mischievous monkeys in their antics.
2. Websites:
– PBS Kids (pbskids.org): This website offers a variety of interactive math games and activities suitable for preschool-aged children.
– Education.com (education.com): This website provides a wide range of printable math worksheets, games, and activities for children of all ages, including those in the pre-school age range.
– Khan Academy Kids (kids.khanacademy.org): This website offers a selection of free educational resources for young children, including math lessons and activities.
3. Apps:
– “Endless Numbers” by Originator Inc.: This app introduces numbers and counting through interactive and animated characters, making learning fun and engaging.
– “Todo Math” by Enuma Inc.: This app offers a variety of math activities and games designed specifically for young children, including counting, number recognition, and more.
– “Sesame Street Alphabet Kitchen” by Sesame Street: Although focused on the alphabet, this app also introduces basic numerical concepts and counting skills through fun mini-games.
B. Recommendations for professional guidance and assessment if needed
If you have concerns about your child’s numeracy development or want to ensure they are progressing appropriately, it may be helpful to seek professional guidance and assessment. Here are some recommendations:
1. Consult with your child’s pediatrician or healthcare provider: They can provide insight into typical developmental milestones and offer advice on resources and strategies for supporting your child’s numeracy development.
2. Reach out to your child’s teacher or school: Teachers can provide valuable insights into your child’s progress and suggest additional activities or interventions to support their numeracy skills. They may also be able to recommend professionals who specialize in early childhood education and mathematics.
3. Consider contacting a math tutor or early childhood education specialist: These professionals can provide one-on-one support tailored to your child’s individual needs. They can assess their current skills, identify areas for improvement, and develop personalized strategies to enhance their numeracy development.
C. Encouragement to seek out local community programs for additional support
In addition to books, websites, and professional guidance, local community programs can be an excellent source of additional support for your child’s numeracy development. These programs often provide interactive and engaging activities specifically designed to enhance young children’s math skills. Consider exploring the following options:
1. Preschools and daycare centers: Many early childhood educational institutions incorporate math activities and lessons into their curriculum, providing a structured environment for your child to learn and practice numeracy skills.
2. Local libraries: Libraries offer storytimes and other educational programs that often include math-related activities. Check your local library’s calendar of events for opportunities to participate in numeracy-focused programs.
3. Parent-child workshops or support groups: These community-based programs provide a platform for parents and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and learn strategies for supporting their child’s numeracy development. Look for workshops or groups specifically focused on early mathematics education in your community.
By utilizing these resources and seeking out additional support from professionals and community programs, you can play an active role in fostering your child’s numeracy development and ensuring they have a solid foundation in this important skill.