Why This Matters
Although we may notice our children engaging in comparison most when it causes an emotional reaction, there’s a huge silver lining to these moments—this ability represents a critical cognitive leap.
Through comparison, children:
- Build the foundation for measurement and number sense
- Strengthen logical reasoning skills
- Start forming mental categories essential for more complex math later
Try it This Week: Growing Math Talk Through Comparison
Here are a few ways to nurture comparison thinking during your everyday routines:
- Use a variety of specific relational words: Try “higher,” “softer,” “wider,” “longer” instead of just “bigger” or “smaller.” Give your child a challenge to find something by looking up higher, or under a piece of furniture.
- Ask noticing questions comparing two things: “Which one feels heavier?” “Which puddle is bigger?”
- Invite problem-solving: “Hmm, is there a way we make the amount of snack in each of your bowls the same?”
- Model gestures: Pointing or showing size with your hands supports the connection between words and ideas.
- Try the Same But Different Math Routine, shown in this video and outlined in the free resource that you can download here: 5 Same But Different Prompts for Toddlers
These ideas are all are great to continue to notice and strengthen even if your kids are past the toddler phase.You don't need flashcards or worksheets—you need the snacks, toys, and clothes that make up your everyday life to drive simple, but impactful, conversations!
Ready to dive into deeper learning about how to build strong math foundations with your toddler? Check out the parent mini-course Math Building Blocks for Toddlers.
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