A Foundation for Thriving Futures
When we think of maths, many of us picture intimidating equations or stressful exams. But the truth is: maths starts long before the classroom. It begins at home, when a child claps to a rhythm, sorts their toys by colour, or counts spoons at the dinner table.
This is what we call early numeracy, and it’s far more than just numbers. It’s the spark that makes children curious, confident, and capable of solving problems in everyday life. Without it, too many of our children start school already behind, and sadly, many never catch up.
What is Early Numeracy?
Early numeracy is the learning of basic concepts like:
Introducing these skills early, children begin to see maths as fun and exciting, not frightening. But this needs to start at both home and the Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, which play a vital role in the child’s education.
When parents, caregivers, and teachers work together, children develop a lifelong confidence in numbers.
Why Does Early Numeracy Matter?
Early numeracy is not just about maths. It lays the foundation for critical thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and memory skills. Children who are confident with numbers find it easier to cope with maths throughout school, instead of feeling anxious or defeated.
Research shows that children who engage with numeracy in their first five years use maths to make sense of their world, connecting what they learn to their environment and daily life.
Yet in South Africa, far too many children are deprived of quality ECD programmes. In many centres, early numeracy is overlooked, leaving children unprepared for the structured demands of formal schooling.
The Starfish Intervention
At the Starfish Greathearts Foundation, we know what is at stake. Without access to quality ECD, children in under-resourced communities face long-term setbacks. That’s why our interventions focus on:
By connecting maths to real life, children discover that numeracy is not an abstract concept; it’s a skill they use every single day.
Case Study: Thando's Journey. Building Confidence Through Numbers
*Thando was just five years old when he started withdrawing from classroom activities. Numbers confused him, and he lacked the confidence to join in.
But with Starfish-supported playful learning, songs, clapping games, and building blocks, something changed. Today, Thando proudly counts to 20, spots patterns, and even helps his family by counting spoons at mealtime.
That’s the power of early numeracy: turning frustration into confidence, and setting children up to thrive in school and beyond.
The Reality in South Africa
The numbers paint a worrying picture:
This unequal access entrenches inequality and robs children of their potential. It is a national crisis that demands urgent action.
Conclusion: Numeracy Matters
The evidence is clear: early numeracy shapes not only school readiness but also life skills and future opportunities.
Through The Starfish Intervention, we are proving that with the right resources, training, and love, children from even the most vulnerable communities can flourish.
Together, we can spark a love of maths, reading, and science in children from the very start. By working together, children in South Africa will have the best possible chance to learn, thrive, and grow into confident young people, ready to contribute to their communities and shape a brighter future.
#NumeracyMatters #StarfishGreathearts #EducationForAll
*Names and identifying details (including photos) may have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.