Why are preliteracy and pre-math materials difficult for
children to learn compared to colors and shapes?
The difference lies in the level of abstraction. Colors and shapes are part of the normal environment. Children can easily distinguish differences within each category (red vs green or square vs circle) and then learn the name we
have for each.
In contrast, alphabet letters, counting or sight words
rely on learning the meaning of symbols (e.g., the letter ‘g’
or the number 12). Because they have little experiential
meaning to the child, these symbols are abstract and hold
little inherent interest. This can be overcome by active
participation and personal encouragement of parents,
caregivers and/or teachers. This provides the
reinforcement that motivates them to put in the effort
(stickers also work well!).