Autumn maths for early years: pumpkins, patterns and plenty of play
As autumn gets underway, there are plenty of opportunities for autumn maths in early years settings. For example, pumpkins, leaves and seasonal play can help children explore counting, sorting, comparing and patterns.
Maths does not need to be a separate activity. Instead, it can be part of the play, routines and conversations that happen every day.
Learn more about the Maths Champions programme
Spot the maths in those autumnal moments
Autumn brings lots of natural opportunities to explore maths.
For example, children can collect and compare autumn leaves. They might sort them by colour, size or shape. They could also count how many they have found.
Pumpkins can provide more opportunities for mathematical thinking. Children can compare their size and weight. They can also talk about shapes, quantities and differences.
In addition, autumn walks can encourage children to notice patterns and changes in the world around them.
These simple experiences can help children develop their mathematical thinking. They also give practitioners opportunities to introduce new mathematical language.
Maths Champions is fully funded for eligible providers
Fully funded Maths Champions places are available for eligible early years providers in England, and you do not need to be an NDNA member to take part.
Whether you are discovering Maths Champions for the first time or have been thinking about getting involved, now is a great time to find out more
More maths inspiration coming this October
We’ll be sharing more Maths Champions content throughout October, including autumn-themed maths activity ideas and insights from our Maths Champions evaluation.
Keep an eye on the NDNA website and our social media channels for more ideas, evidence and inspiration to help make maths part of everyday early years practice.
Find out more
If you’d like to discover why Maths Champions has been recognised in both The Learning Award and The Workforce Development Award, explore the programme and see how it is helping early years settings build confident practitioners and confident mathematicians.
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- Maths Champions Programme
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