Says number names when talking and playing

Your child might have shown some awareness of numbers and counting for a little while, perhaps imitating the rhythm and intonation of counting. As they become more aware that words can be used to represent different things, they might begin to use number names as they play.

Developing number-concept 

When children first begin to use number names this is usually without understanding, your child might recite the list of numbers, but might not necessarily link this list of numbers with quantity. The development of understanding of the link between a number name and quantity takes time, and researchers suggest that children learn the meanings one at a time. This means that your child will understand ‘one’, ‘two’, ‘three’ and ‘four’ one at a time and in order. [1]  

Understanding numbers and language 

Researchers suggest that there is a correlation between children’s language development and their development of number concept. It could be that knowing more words helps children to pick out number words and then begin to link these with quantities. For example, if you said to your child, “Look three cars!” If they understand the word car, they know the word three links to the cars and with repeated experience will begin to understand that the word three is used to describe a particular quantity. Some researchers suggest that children’s understanding of words such as, ‘a,’ ‘some’ and ‘all’, support them to understand the function of number words and so support the understanding of meaning. Others think that the link between language development and understanding of number could be connected to the overall number of words children use. So, if adults chat to children a lot they will hear and use lots of words including number words. [1]  

Mathematical skills and play 

Researchers have also found a link between children’s play skills and their mathematical understanding. The researchers found that children who were active in their play, both when playing alone and alongside others, who initiated play and who were able to stay focused on their play had more developed mathematical skills. [2] Your child will explore the world through play and having time to play and to become focused on their play helps them to find out about the world, including exploring quantity and other mathematical ideas. It is also suggested that turn-taking might contribute to the development of mathematical skills as in order to take turns children need to develop self-regulation and an understanding of order. 

What next? 

Your child’s understanding of counting and quantity will continue to develop, and they will begin to say numbers in order, then they will begin to understand that the final number they say is the quantity in the group.  

References 

[1] Negen, J. & Sarnecka, B.W. (2012) Number-concept acquisition and general vocabulary development. Child Development, 83(6), 2019-2027.  

[2] Reikeras, E. (2020). Relations between play skills and mathematical skills in toddlers. ZDM Mathematics Education, 52, 703-716.