Maths Is Everywhere: The Early Years Journey into Curiosity
At the Wellington Shanghai Early Years Centre our Curriculum Charter is the guiding document which identifies the why, the how, and the impact of what we teach. It is an essential part of how we ensure that each child reaches his or her full potential.
In the second episode of our Curriculum Charter series Navigating the Future we explore how maths nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence, helping children make sense of the world around them, one discovery at a time.
Watch Episode 2 of Navigating the Future below.
01
Why Maths Matters
Nina Li, Assistant Head of Early Years, explains,
"Maths is the language of problem-solving. We lay foundations so children see patterns in nature, rhythms in music, even sharing snacks becomes a lesson in solving real-world maths problems."
In the Early Years, curiosity is at the heart of every discovery. Whether it's wondering why five stones are heavier than five pinecones, or counting how many classmates are present, these everyday questions introduce logical thinking and inspire further questions.
"When children embrace maths with joy, they see challenges as puzzles to solve, not obstacles to fear," Nina adds. "That mindset shapes future scientists, artists, and problem-solvers, because maths isn't just about equations; it’s about asking 'what if?' and 'how else?'"
02
How We Teach Maths
Lewis Booth, Early Years Teacher, describes how "maths is everywhere" is woven naturally through play, conversation, and exploration.
"The Early Years curriculum combines the UK Early Years Foundation Stage framework with the White Rose Maths approach, breaking big ideas into small, meaningful steps that build mastery through practice and play," he explains.
"Children count shells, spot shapes in clouds, and use building blocks to explore measurement and comparison. They engage with hands-on materials and visual models that make abstract ideas tangible, which is a method inspired by the best of both Singapore and Shanghai maths traditions. "
"This mathematical thinking extends across the school, from building structures in the playground to finding rhythm in music. Everywhere they look, children are learning to think like mathematicians."
03
The Impact
When maths becomes part of everyday discovery, children don't just learn maths, they learn to love it. They approach challenges with curiosity, persistence, and confidence.
At Wellington mathematical thinking is more than counting or calculation, it's the foundation for creative problem-solving and lifelong learning.
Charlotte Knight-Benjafield, Principal of the Early Years Campus, concludes,
"Just as maths builds confident thinkers, our next episode shows how design builds innovators where mistakes are celebrated, and creativity rules."
Stay tuned!
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