The Power of Play in Early Learning

The Power of Play in Early Learning

Dr. Geetha Ramani’s March 2026 Roundtable delved into the power of play in early math learning, drawing on her extensive research and classroom experience. She emphasized that meaningful math learning starts with everyday interactions—whether sorting laundry, cooking, or playing games—and that these ordinary moments are rich with opportunities to build foundational math skills. For Dr. Ramani, early math isn’t just about memorizing numbers or completing worksheets, but about nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a positive relationship with math from the start.

A major focus of her discussion was on integrating “math talk” and playful exploration naturally throughout the day. Dr. Ramani encouraged teachers and parents to ask open-ended questions, use gestures, and invite children to describe what they see and do, turning routine activities into playful learning experiences. She highlighted the value of modeling math vocabulary and using multiple forms of communication—including hands and gestures—to help children visualize and understand mathematical concepts in different ways.

Dr. Ramani also addressed the importance of flexibility in teaching: recognizing that children’s motor skills and abilities vary, and that recognizing and understanding numbers is more important at first than being able to write them perfectly. She reassured teachers, especially those newer to the field, that integrating math into daily routines doesn’t mean adding more work—it’s about seeing and seizing the natural opportunities for learning that already exist. By fostering environments where math is playful, conversational, and collaborative, adults can help children build the confidence and skills they’ll need for more advanced learning later on.

Dr. Ramani invited ongoing conversation and collaboration, reinforcing the value of community in supporting early learners. Her central message was clear: when we integrate play, language, and everyday experiences, we not only teach math, but also inspire a lifelong love of learning.