Numeracy

Building confidence with numbers through practical, meaningful experiences.

Numeracy is the ability to use, interpret, and communicate mathematical information to solve real-world problems. It is an essential skill for children to develop, as it helps them to think logically and solve problems in their everyday lives.

Numeracy and communication are closely linked. When children are able to communicate their mathematical thinking, they are better able to understand and solve problems. They are also able to share their mathematical knowledge with others, which can help them to learn and grow.There are many ways to help children develop their numeracy and communication skills. Here are a few ideas:

- Talk about numbers and math concepts in everyday life. This could include counting objects, talking about time, or measuring ingredients when cooking.
- Play math games and activities. There are many fun and engaging math games that can help children to learn and practice their skills.
- Use manipulatives. Manipulatives are objects that can be used to represent mathematical concepts. They can help children to visualize and understand math problems.
- Read books and stories about math. There are many great children's books that can help children to learn about math in a fun and engaging way.

By providing children with opportunities to develop their numeracy and communication skills, we can help them to succeed in school and in life.

Resources

Procedural Maths vs Numerical Reasoning

Many children can complete maths procedures without fully understanding the numbers involved. Procedural maths focuses on following a method or rule, while numerical reasoning focuses on understanding why the maths works and applying it flexibly.

> Numeracy & Number in Curriculum for Wales <

Procedural Maths

Procedural maths is about carrying out a learned method.For example:

- Solving 34 + 27 using a taught column method
- Counting in 2s from memory
- Recalling number facts or times tables
- Following steps to complete an equation

A child may complete the calculation correctly, but still have limited understanding of the size, relationships or meaning of the numbers involved.

Numerical Reasoning

Numerical reasoning is about thinking mathematically and understanding relationships between numbers.For example:

- Knowing that 34 + 27 is close to 35 + 25
- Recognising that adding 9 is similar to adding 10 and subtracting 1
- Estimating whether an answer is reasonable
- Solving real-life problems using flexible strategies
- Explaining why a method works

Strong numerical reasoning helps children become confident, adaptable mathematicians rather than relying solely on memorised procedures.

Building Strong Number Sense

Number sense is the foundation of mathematical understanding. It is the ability to recognise, understand and work flexibly with numbers — knowing what numbers mean, how they relate to one another, and how they can be represented in different ways. Children with strong number sense can estimate, compare quantities, spot patterns and use efficient strategies rather than relying only on memorised methods. It develops through real experiences, visual models, play, discussion and repeated exploration of numbers in meaningful contexts.

Early number sense includes skills such as:

Recognising quantities without counting (subitising)
Understanding one more and one less
Comparing amounts
Recognising patterns
Linking numbers to real objects and experiences
Understanding place value and part-whole relationships

These early foundations are essential for later confidence in maths and problem solving.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse