In this episode of Popular Podagogy, host Chris Carlton chats with Dr. Sandy Youmans about why early math really matters—and how we can help kids stop “hating math” and start feeling confident with numbers. From foundational numeracy skills to mixing direct instruction with playful, real-world learning, Sandy breaks down what strong early math teaching actually looks like in Canadian classrooms. With a parent perspective (and some great at-home math ideas) thrown into the mix, this conversation makes a compelling case for building math confidence early—because it turns out kids don’t hate math, they hate feeling bad at it. 

Resources

• AIM Collective (Assessment and Instruction for Mathematics) – A Canada-wide network of researchers and educators focused on strengthening elementary math education
• Math Cognition Lab (Carleton University) – Research lab hosting the AIM Collective and leading work on early numeracy and number development
• Beyond 1-2-3: Early Mathematics Education in Canada – Book co-edited by Dr. Sandy Youmans
• earlymath.ca – Website hosted by Dr. Youmans with resources related to early mathematics education
• TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) – International assessment of math and science achievement (Grades 4 and 8)
• Young Mathematicians – Online math resources for educators and families
• Erikson Early Math Collaborative – Organization supporting early math learning and instruction
• DREME Network (Stanford University) – Research network focused on early math development
• Measuring Penny by Loreen Leedy – Children’s book highlighting measurement concepts through everyday experiences