Which of the following can be best used as a strategy to develop early mathematics?

Providing matching activities on shapes to look at similarities and differences is a highly effective strategy for developing early mathematics skills. Such activities encourage young children to explore and understand concepts such as classification, sorting, and pattern recognition. By engaging with shapes through matching, children learn to identify attributes and make connections between different objects, which are foundational skills for later mathematical learning.

This hands-on approach allows children to actively participate in their learning process, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through comparing and contrasting shapes, children not only develop their mathematical reasoning but also enhance their language skills by discussing their observations and explanations with peers or caregivers. Engaging with the physical properties of shapes lays the groundwork for more complex mathematical concepts they will encounter as they progress in their education.