Using Play and Environment for Mathematical Talk

In this insightful episode, we unpack what it really means to lay the foundations for maths in the early years - not through worksheets or rushed number goals, but by building deep, confident mathematical thinking through language, connection and play.

Joined by Twinkl’s National Primary Maths Lead Jon Cripwell, we explore the marvel of maths, from the importance of using precise vocabulary, to the role of the adult as the ultimate connector between children and mathematical ideas: this conversation reframes early maths as something every child can access and enjoy - with the right foundations in place.

We also explore the hotly debated question: should your classroom have a designated maths area? Spoiler alert - it depends on how you use it.

This is your invitation to reimagine maths in Reception - not as a checklist of objectives, but as a living, breathing part of everyday learning. Parents included!

This episode will leave you thinking differently about what early maths is, how we talk about it, and the kind of experiences that truly prepare children for lifelong success.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• Why maths in Reception is one of the biggest predictors of later success – and what that tells us about where to focus our time and energy

• The case for being fussy about maths vocabulary – how precise language builds real understanding

• How Reception teachers (and families) are the ultimate connectors – why the magic isn’t in the resources, but in the way you bring maths to life through conversation and curiosity

• Whether a maths area is worth it – what a truly purposeful maths space looks like, and why maths needs to be visible across the whole provision

• What ‘early maths’ really looks like – including how routines rock.

…and that’s just the start!

I’m Michelle Hague, founder of HEYD (Early Years School Improvement Specialists) and host of the Early Years Impact podcast. FREE resources to re-connect children with nature are being launched by outdoor.classrooms on Insta - be sure to connect with Richard and the team to be in the first round of giveaways.

You can contact me directly: michellehague@heyd.uk

Visit heyd.co.uk for more info on our early years school improvement offers, including on-site visits, coaching and training.

Sponsored by outdoor.classrooms and their SENDCO Nature Initiative, which is proudly supported by HEYD.

Whether you’re new to Reception or deep in your early years journey, this episode will empower you to see maths not as a subject, but as a way of seeing the world and as something every child deserves to feel confident in.

I know this episode will inspire you to connect more with Jon Cripwell, Twinkl’s Maths Lead , jon.cripwell@twinkl.co.uk, who you can also find at:

LinkedIn: Jon Cripwell

Instagram: @joncripwellmaths

And as the Host of The Primary Maths Podcast (YouTube and all major podcast platforms).