Understanding Mathematics for Young Children

The research focus in each chapter is particularly useful as this link between research and practice is often not made by trainee teachers.  The pauses to reflect section in each chapter is a welcome addition to this type of book as these will undoubtedly help to put the reading into some context for those practitioners in school and those training to teach children.  The areas chosen for each chapter are areas where there can be difficulties in understanding the mathematical ideas so these are well chosen.

This book provides a useful link between research and practice; one that is often not made by trainee teachers. The pauses to reflect section in each chapter help to put the reading into context for those practitioners in school and those training to teach children. 

-- Joanne Sutcliffe
′This is a very comprehensive textbook for teachers and student teachers. We trust the authors due to their wealth of experience in the field! The research focus links are also an important feature to emphasise the need for informed practice.′ -- Sandy Peperell

This book’s strengths lie in its pedagogical subject knowledge. The examples of children’s work and reflective opportunities keep it grounded in the classroom and ‘real’ teaching while challenging thinking and addressing potential confusion amongst teachers. Someone reading this would be left with a strong pedagogical understanding of how children learn and how their teaching can impact on this.

  -- Chris Ty