Early Math Concepts & Winter Learning
Winter is the perfect season for meaningful, hands-on learning, especially when young children are given opportunities to explore, create, and problem-solve through play.
At Curious Steps Childcare & Early Learning Center, our winter activities are thoughtfully designed to support early development while keeping children engaged, focused, and curious. One of our favorite winter learning invitations this season has been a snowman-themed fine motor and early math activity that naturally blends learning with joy.
Learning Through Hands-On Exploration
In this activity, children worked with snowman shapes and colorful bingo chips to explore:
Counting and early math concepts
Color recognition and matching
Fine motor development and hand-eye coordination
Focus, concentration, and problem-solving skills
Using their hands to place and sort materials helps strengthen the small muscles needed for writing later on, while also supporting cognitive development in a calm, engaging way.
A Reggio Emilia-Inspired Approach
True to our Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy, we believe the environment is the child’s third teacher. Instead of worksheets or rigid instruction, children are invited to explore open-ended materials at their own pace.
This snowman activity encouraged:
Independent thinking
Creativity and choice
Confidence through self-directed learning
Each child engaged differently. Some focused on counting, others on color patterns, and others simply on the sensory experience of handling the materials. Every approach was valued.
Supporting Focus and Self-Regulation in Young Children
Activities like this also help children practice focus and self-regulation, important skills for toddlers and preschoolers. Because the materials are visually inviting but not overstimulating, children naturally slow down, concentrate, and stay engaged longer.
These moments of deep focus are a key part of early childhood development and something we intentionally nurture every day.
Learning That Feels Like Play
At Curious Steps Childcare & Early Learning Center in Burien, learning is never forced. When children are excited to participate, real learning happens effortlessly. Winter learning doesn’t have to mean staying still or limiting exploration: it can be creative, hands-on, and joyful.
