Jayashree (Jay) Sonti is co-founder and executive director of Early Math and Language Initiative (EMLI), a nonprofit that offers after-school programs for preschool-age children and families in Lewiston and the Greater Portland area. 

In our after-school program in Lewiston, a 4-year-old carefully counted the Goldfish crackers on his plate. Then he looked up and noticed his friend had fewer. Without missing a beat, the friend replied, “But I already ate some.”

In that small exchange, the children were doing much more than counting. They were comparing quantities, understanding “fewer,” and even grasping the idea of subtraction — all while making sense of the world around them. Along with math, they were building curiosity, observation, communication, language, critical thinking, confidence and social connection.

Moments like these remind us that when we recognize the importance of early math, make it accessible and give it the same attention often reserved for reading, we open the door to brighter futures.

Early mathematics is essential yet often overlooked. Nurturing these skills is one of the most effective ways to prepare children for school. Research shows that children are born with an innate number sense — they can recognize quantities even before they develop language. By building on this natural inclination, we can lay a strong foundation for learning.

And yet, math is rarely woven into daily experiences with the same frequency or playfulness as language and storytelling. It should be. Early math naturally integrates language, cognitive development and social-emotional skills, making it a powerful tool for whole-child development.

Research consistently shows that early math skills strongly predict later academic success. Just as importantly, they shape how children feel about learning. Too often, children absorb the message that math is difficult, boring or only for certain people. The best way to change that narrative is to start early — so math, like reading, becomes a natural and joyful part of everyday life.

We have seen that children can begin to disengage from math at a surprisingly young age. But when math is introduced as playful, inclusive and relevant, children build confidence and a positive mindset. Beyond academics, math helps them make sense of their world — through patterns, comparisons and problem-solving in everyday situations.

Literacy advocates have long encouraged reading from birth, and rightly so. Even a few minutes a day can support language and social development. Early math deserves similar attention.

Despite growing evidence of its wide-ranging benefits, a common misconception persists that reading comes first, and math can wait. The two are deeply connected. Language supports math learning, and math, in turn, strengthens reasoning, comprehension and overall cognitive development. Some researchers suggest that early math may have an even stronger impact on children’s long-term learning because it naturally integrates problem-solving, language and critical thinking skills.

The good news is that math is everywhere — and it belongs to everyone. Whether folding laundry, shopping for groceries, peeling an orange or playing in the park, everyday moments are filled with opportunities for math. Children do not see math as a separate subject; they experience it as part of life. A stop sign becomes a shape to recognize, sides to count and a symbol to understand.

With a little guidance, everyday moments become meaningful opportunities. When caregivers embrace simple “math talk” during play, stories and daily routines, children begin to explore math confidently.

Math skills build over time — like bricks forming a strong foundation — supporting more complex thinking as children grow. The solution may be closer than we think. Start early, give math a chance and invest in family engagement. Our children deserve a bright future.