The Lasting Impact of Play-Based Maths Learning Beyond the Early Years

Many young children are naturally drawn to building, sorting, and exploring shapes. These early maths experiences lay a vital foundation. Yet, as they move into more formal education, children across Europe often face challenges when learning shifts from practical exploration to abstract, paper-based methods.

Although brain development continues well into adolescence, hands-on learning tends to fade just when mathematical concepts become more advanced. What if, instead of more worksheets, the key lies in sustaining curiosity through learning through play?

Playful learning supports deep understanding

At tickit, we see how STEM resources that are tactile and visually engaging help children make sense of mathematical ideas. When abstract thinking feels overwhelming, maths manipulatives provide clarity. Children who struggle with numbers on a page often find success when they can physically explore shapes and patterns.

Take symmetry: it can be difficult to grasp from a drawing. But place half a Colour Crystal Block next to a mirror, and suddenly the concept becomes visible, interactive, and fun.

From abstract to concrete thinking

In early years education, building a bridge between hands-on learning and abstract thinking is essential. Our Jumbo Regular & Irregular Shapes make this connection easy. When layered on a light panel, children can compare shape properties visually. They quickly understand how two very different hexagons still share six sides.

This is not about simplifying maths. It is about making it meaningful. Constructing 3D structures with Colour Crystal Blocks helps children internalise key STEM concepts while engaging their creativity and spatial reasoning.

Confidence grows through hands-on success

When children succeed in building beautiful, symmetrical patterns using blocks and mirrors, they begin to see themselves as capable mathematicians. That transformation from “I can’t do maths” to “I created this” is incredibly powerful.

This confidence stems from real understanding. Children who may struggle with verbal or written explanations often thrive when learning becomes physical and visual. These insights help educators and families support each child’s individual learning journey.

Creating lasting learning experiences

When early maths is fun, engaging, and multisensory, children are more likely to retain what they have learned. Whether it is watching colourful shapes glow on a light panel or discovering symmetry outdoors, these moments become meaningful.

As primary school teacher Rachel Comfort shares: “Manipulatives give context to learning. Adults often struggle to see the purpose behind a concept, but manipulatives make it clear.”

Beautifully designed resources for active learning

Our early years maths resources are carefully designed to spark curiosity, withstand play, and support educational goals. Here are just a few playful ways to explore mathematical concepts:

Exploring symmetry and pattern

• Use Rainbow Glitter Shapes on a light panel to explore rotational symmetry
• Create mirror-based investigations with the Colour Crystal Block Set
• Build 3D structures that reflect symmetrical design from multiple angles

Learning shape properties through play

• Layer shapes on a light panel to highlight shared mathematical features
• Encourage descriptive language by turning shape recognition into a detective game
• Design creative tessellations with Colour Crystal Blocks

Capturing imagination with light and colour

• Mix colours by layering translucent shapes
• Demonstrate how light behaves through different materials
• Inspire creativity by forming colourful mandala patterns

Making cross-curricular links

The power of active maths lies in how easily it connects across subjects. Use Rainbow Glitter Shapes to explore symmetry outdoors. Create mandalas that blend geometry with art. These connections help children see maths as relevant and exciting.

Support for every learner

Whether you are a parent helping at home, an early years teacher, or a childminder, tickit resources are made to bring joy and clarity to maths. By offering learning through play, we turn curriculum targets into meaningful, memorable experiences that build lasting confidence.

Why play and maths belong together

At tickit, we believe that play is a powerful learning tool. When children explore, experiment, and create, they do not just "do maths", they understand it. That understanding stays with them as they grow and continue their educational journey.

Every child deserves to experience the magic of maths with thoughtfully designed maths manipulatives that encourage hands-on exploration, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.