We librarian-types expound on the importance of books, reading and learning words. But we should also be encouraging caregivers to share words AND number words. In a summary from Science Daily of a study published by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences – “in the simplest terms: tt is important to teach children to memorize their 1, 2, 3s along with their A, B, Cs. And singing songs like “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe” can’t hurt. But it’s at least as important to put numbers into natural speech and say to your 12- to 24-month-old “There are two buttons,” when pointing to a pair.”
Librarians and caregivers unite! Sing songs, read books, learn numbers and reach for the stars! Who’s excited!?