Engaging Young Children in Mathematics.

ENGAGING YOUNG CHILDREN IN MATHEMATICS. D.H. Clements, J. Sarama, & A. DiBiase (Eds.). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2003. 474 pp. $49.95. This book developed out of the Conference on Standards for Pre-school and Kindergarten Mathematics Education. The purpose of the conference was to facilitate discussion and collaboration towards the development of a framework for math standards, curricula, and pedagogy in early childhood education. This book is a compilation of the comments, rationalizations, and conclusions of the conference. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in the mathematical education of young children, including preservice and inservice teachers, curricula developers, intervention specialists, and teacher-educators.

Part I of the book outlines five major themes for early childhood math education. Each theme is couched within certain basic assumptions about young children's learning, such as Assumption 2: All children have the interest and ability to engage in mathematical experiences. A rich synthesis of research and theory as well as firm recommendations accompany each theme. The theme on Mathematical Ideas is particularly noteworthy, for it provides specific guidelines for mathematical content as well as developmental guidelines for ages 3 to 7 in each content area. For the millions of teachers who are seeking authentic assessments, these guidelines provide a much-needed, research-based developmental framework.

Part II of the book is divided into five sections that systematically address key issues raised in Part I. Each chapter is written by a collaboration of international scholars and researchers. Several of the authors have written with such fervor that their passionate commitment to the tenets of mathematical thinking and learning will inspire readers. Reviewed by Sudha Swaminathan, Associate Professor, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic