When I find myself thinking that the research findings cannot be any clearer to inform the field, another outstanding report is issued. This time the National Research Council released on July 2nd, "Mathematics Learning in Early Childhood: Paths Toward Excellence and Equity." Hall of Famers such as Doug Clements, Herb Ginsburg, Sharon Kagan, Robert Pianta, and Sue Bredekamp headline this report as well as Heidi Schweingruber.

As I have stated in earlier blogs, it is inappropriate to ignore mathematics in early childhood. During infancy, children are able to think about their world mathematically. Mathematics instruction needs to be increased in early childhood. The report recommends that ample time is devoted to the concept of "number", geometry, measurement, and spatial thinking. This report calls for states to revise or develop their early childhood mathematics standards. Texas, California, and Florida have revised their state standards in the last year or so and have very robust mathematics guidelines. Hopefully, National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) will soon follow.

We also learn that children of poverty must have early high-quality mathematics instruction which provides a foundation for later math and reading success.

To view the entire report, go to: http://www.nap.edu