Building strong mathematical minds in children

Numerical cognition refers to the ability to understand, process, and manipulate numbers. It is a fundamental cognitive skill that allows children to comprehend quantities, perform calculations, and develop logical thinking. For students, teachers, and parents, understanding numerical cognition is crucial, as it forms the foundation for mathematics learning and everyday problem-solving.

At its core, numerical cognition involves several skills, including number sense, estimation, counting, and arithmetic operations. Number sense allows children to recognize patterns, compare quantities, and understand relationships between numbers. Estimation and mental calculation help in making quick judgments, while arithmetic operations develop precision and logical reasoning. These skills are interlinked with working memory, attention, and problem-solving, making numerical cognition a cornerstone for academic success.

The importance of numerical cognition extends beyond the classroom. In daily life, it is used in activities such as budgeting, measuring ingredients for cooking, calculating travel time, or even planning schedules. Developing strong numerical cognition equips children with essential skills that are critical for academic growth, logical reasoning, and practical decision-making. By fostering number sense, problem-solving abilities, and real-life applications, both teachers and parents can ensure that children not only excel in mathematics but also become confident, analytical, and capable individuals ready to face challenges.

As further explained by Ms Sakshi Nagpal, Educator and School Counsellor at Apeejay School, Noida, “Teachers play a vital role in enhancing numerical cognition at school. Effective practices include using visual aids, manipulatives, and interactive tools to make abstract concepts tangible. Activities like number games, puzzles, and math challenges stimulate curiosity, reasoning, and critical thinking.”

“A child with strong numerical cognition can make informed decisions, approach problems logically, and apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations confidently. For example, understanding fractions helps while dividing a pizza among friends, while estimating costs ensures better financial literacy,” the educator concluded.