Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Cognitive Development (CD)

Subdomain: Mathematical Thinking and Expression

Goal: Children identify and use common shapes and concepts about position during play and other activities.

Skill Progression: Spatial understanding

Age: 10-12 Months

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Observe the child in floor play activities with poker chips, blocks, or other small items and several containers with loose lids. If desired, include a washcloth or tissue in which to wrap a small toy. Place the small items and containers around the child.

Observe the infant’s reach as he reaches for the larger containers and smaller toys.

The infant will use both hands to pick up the larger containers and one hand to reach for a smaller toy. This demonstrates his understanding of the different spatial amounts and need for modification of grasp.

Explain the importance of the child being able to experiment with containers to determine spatial relations. These do not have to be fancy toys. Parents can save gift boxes, food containers (cleaned), and small filling items such as large bottle caps or jar lids. Experimentation with sizes, spaces, and distances is important for young children.