How the Best Daycare Programs Teach Kids about Numbers

The best daycare programs teach math through play.

Preschoolers are natural explorers. They count steps, notice shapes, and line up toys without even realizing they’re doing math. At Little Buckey Learning Centers, one of the best daycare programs in Ohio, we build on this curiosity to make numbers fun and meaningful.

Little Buckeye Learning Centers has seven locations in the Columbus area, and a new location in the Cleveland area in Avon Lake. You can find a location near you.

The Best Daycare Programs Teach Math in Daily Routines

We know how important math is. Research shows strong early math skills predict later school success, even more than early reading.

Math develops logical thinking, patience, and persistence. Children who start school comfortable with numbers tend to pick up new concepts faster and with less stress.

At this age, math is not about worksheets. It’s about touching, moving, and seeing. Play builds the foundation for later problem-solving.

Our teachers weave numbers into simple routines. Kids count how many friends are at circle time, how many crackers are on a plate, or how many blocks it takes to build a tower. These everyday moments show that math is part of life.

Here are some of the other ways we teach children math at Little Buckeye Learning Centers every day.

Songs and Rhymes

Preschoolers love music. Songs like “Five Little Monkeys” or “Ten in the Bed” help kids practice counting forward and backward. Rhythm and repetition make numbers stick, almost like a catchy tune stuck in your head.

Visual Aids

Teachers often use charts, number lines, and picture books with numbers woven into the story. Seeing numbers paired with images makes them less abstract. A page showing “3 ducks” helps connect the symbol “3” to real life.

Early Problem-Solving

Preschool math goes beyond counting. Programs encourage children to compare sizes (“Which block is taller?”), notice patterns (“Red, blue, red, blue”), and solve small problems (“We need two more spoons for snack”). These early challenges build confidence and critical-thinking skills.