MILO & Friends promotes early math learning for kids ages 2 - 5. Discover why early math is important and where to begin.
Early math scores predict future success
Across multiple studies, Kindergarten math entry scores were the strongest predictor of academic and career achievement. Early math skills were stronger predictors than any other variable, including early reading scores, attention skills, socioemotional behaviors, SES, and gender.
Talking to kids about math mediates gaps
Studies show that caregivers' spatial language predicts math entry scores for students entering kindergarten. However, 93% of caregivers say they don't have the knowledge or resources to do math with kids ages 0-5. Even small changes in how we talk to children can help.
Math with toddlers can be simple and fun
Everyday activities can become math learning for young kids. Sort and count things like toys and snacks. Compare differences in size in the objects around you. Identify shapes and count how many you see. For more ideas about how to practice math with kids explore the resources on this page.
Early Math at Home
The MILO and Friends program collaborated with the ELLO (Everyday Language & Learning Opportunities) and Friends program on artwork. Visit www.helloello.org for more information.
Resources for Parents and Caregivers
Math Games
Playing board games like "Happy Bunny" with your child, aged 2 and up, can help them learn a variety of early math skills. If you would like more information about math-focused games, contact us.
Contact: Clarence Ames, Research and Implementation Manager at [email protected]
Free Books
The Utah STEM Action Center has partnered with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to provide free books and resources to families of early learners. When you read and talk about math while you play with your kids at home, you are building resilience, kindergarten readiness, family connections, and foundations for future success.
This program is currently available in Garfield, Iron, Piute, Sevier, Washington, and Wayne counties.
