The Development of Early Mathematical Skills : A Theoretical Framework for a Holistic Model

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.