Exploring the 3-D World: Developing Spatial and Math Skills in Young Children

We live in a three-dimensional world, but many of our learning environments offer few opportunities for three-dimensional exploration and developing the spatial reasoning that is integral to everyday life and to closing the achievement gap.

Developing these skills in children will cultivate their curiosity, persistence, and intellectual capacity beyond the narrow definitions of academic achievement. Exploring the 3-D World covers

current research on the effectiveness of developing spatial skills in the early years

the essential components of playful exploration

key spatial skills that are important for children to learn

how visual representations such as displays of data, drawing, and documentation open new pathways to learning

vocabulary and conversation starters to expand learning

activities for families to try at home with recommended children's books that reinforce the spatial skills introduced

The skills are accompanied with illustrated examples of activities taken from public preschool and kindergarten classrooms, private preschools and child care centers, and home settings.