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As parents and caregivers, we all want our children to step confidently into their first classroom curious, capable, and ready to learn. One of the biggest areas that supports this school readiness is early maths. But here’s the secret: the best preparation doesn’t come from worksheets or flashcards it comes from play.
At Edx Education, we believe that playful, hands-on experiences are the foundation for lifelong learning. By exploring, experimenting, and problem-solving through play, children develop the building blocks of mathematical understanding long before formal lessons begin.
The Power of Play in Early Maths
Early maths is about so much more than counting. It’s about developing number sense understanding what numbers mean, how they relate to one another, and how they connect to the real world. Play naturally provides this context.
When children build towers, sort toys, pour sand into cups, or line up cars, they’re learning to compare sizes, recognise patterns, and measure quantities. These experiences teach mathematical thinking without children even realising it.
At Edx Education, we design educational toys and resources that make these early concepts come alive. Through open-ended play, children learn to make predictions, test ideas, and solve problems skills that form the foundation of school readiness and future maths success.
From Playtime to the Classroom: Easing the Transition
The transition from play-based learning at home or nursery to structured learning in school can feel like a big leap. However, the more confident children are in exploring mathematical ideas through play, the smoother that transition becomes.
Hands-on resources like the Maths 101 Kits, Linking Cubes Reflection Set, and Number Rods to Go bridge the gap between playful exploration and classroom learning.
Essential Maths Learning Tools for School Readiness
Maths 101 Kits introduce key maths concepts such as counting, sorting, addition, and subtraction through engaging activities. Each kit encourages children to explore maths in meaningful ways turning abstract ideas into concrete understanding.
Linking Cubes Reflection Set helps children visualise numbers and relationships through stacking, connecting, and pattern-making.
Number Rods to Go supports children in understanding number value, sequencing, and early operations. By physically manipulating the rods, children can “see” the difference between numbers and develop strong visual and spatial reasoning.
How Edx Education Supports Parents and Teachers
At Edx Education, we recognise that parents and teachers are partners in helping children develop a love of learning. That’s why we provide free downloadable resources, printable activity guides, and the Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast. Together, these resources help adults understand how to support children’s mathematical thinking through play whether it’s at home, in the classroom, or on the go.
Building Confidence for a Lifetime of Learning
School readiness isn’t about being able to recite numbers or complete sums. It’s about developing confidence, curiosity, and persistence. By engaging in play-based maths activities, children learn that mistakes are part of learning, that numbers tell stories, and that problem-solving can be fun. These are the skills that prepare them not just for school, but for life.
Written by Heather Welch, General Manager Edx Education UK and Author of Happy Children Play
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is play-based learning better than worksheets for early maths?
A: Play allows children to experience mathematical concepts in a concrete, hands-on way. Instead of memorising abstract symbols, they develop a deep "number sense" by physically manipulating objects, which leads to better long-term understanding and problem-solving skills.
Q: What mathematical skills should my child have before starting school?
A: School readiness is less about advanced sums and more about foundational concepts like counting objects, recognising simple patterns, comparing sizes (more/less, bigger/smaller), and understanding basic shapes through everyday play.
Q: How can I support maths learning at home without it feeling like "lessons"?
A: Integrate maths into daily routines. Count steps as you walk, sort laundry by colour or size, use measuring cups during baking, or build with blocks. Using open-ended toys like Linking Cubes also makes exploration feel like a fun game rather than study.
