Early Childhood Corner: Measuring Experiences for Young Children

Abstract

“Are you bigger than my teacher?” fouryear- old Jeffery asked his slightly overweight principal on his way to the bus. Responding optimistically, Mrs. Hix said, “Do you mean taller?”

The challenges of using one’s body as a reference: “Is it higher than my sitting height?”

“…Children from Pre-K through Grade 2 should be learning about measurement using a non-standard unit (National Council, 2000). It has been strongly recommended for young children to practice measuring using a variety of objects to help them build concrete measurement concepts (Copley et al, 2004). Measuring occurs in children’s everyday life at home and at school (e.g.…”