Maths In The EYFS

What does Maths look like in Early Years at Lathom Park?

At Lathom Park, we want our children to enjoy maths and see it as part of everyday life. From counting teddies to measuring how tall a tower is, maths is all around us in the Early Years classroom.

In Nursery, we build a strong foundation by focusing on early number sense—counting objects, recognising numbers, and talking about shapes, patterns, and size. We use songs, games, stories and practical activities to help children develop mathematical thinking in a fun and meaningful way.

In Reception, we build on this through hands-on activities that encourage children to explore number composition (like knowing 5 is made of 2 and 3), compare quantities, and begin to solve simple problems. We also explore pattern, shape, space and measures using everyday objects and real-life contexts.

By the end of Reception, children will:

• Have a deep understanding of numbers to 10, including how they can be made and used;

• Be able to count confidently beyond 10 and compare quantities;

• Talk about patterns, shapes, and measures with confidence.