No one invented mathematics. It exists independently of our whims. The entire world is built according to its fantastic, abstract patterns. From the movement of planets, through the symmetry of flower petals, to the structure of a child's hand – mathematics surrounds us everywhere!
Mathematics: the foundation of the world
Should mathematics be taught as a collection of rules to be memorized?
Recent voices from educators and scientists are increasingly leaning towards moving away from the traditional approach to this field. Mathematics is not just a science – it is the language in which our universe is written. Therefore, it is worth presenting it to children as an exciting discovery of the principles governing the world around us, rather than merely dry theory. Children have a natural ability to explore and discover. Mathematics, understood as play, develops their creativity and opens new ways of thinking. Abacuses, sorters, and analog puzzles are excellent tools that introduce children to this abstract world in an accessible and engaging way.
Why wooden toys are the key to mathematical imagination?
Analog toys have a unique ability to activate creativity. Unlike digital toys, which often impose one specific form of play, wooden toys leave room for a child's imagination. Moving beads on an abacus or arranging shapes in sorters allows toddlers to independently discover patterns, dependencies, and order. Wooden abacuses are not just tools for learning to count. They are gateways to the world of mathematical abstractions. By moving the beads, a child intuitively learns the principles of addition, subtraction, as well as symmetry and rhythm. Such an experience – based on touch and movement – is much more engaging than observing numbers on a screen.
Play that teaches logic and courage
Mathematical abstractions require the courage to think outside the box. Therefore, it is worth giving children toys that allow them to explore and experiment. Shape sorters or wooden abacuses, which you will find in the BAJO collection, are excellent examples of how mathematics can be interesting and beautiful. Each element of these toys has its unique shape and color, which inspires the child to discover – what fits together, what is different, what patterns emerge when elements are combined. In this way, toddlers learn logic, analysis, and spatial thinking, while also enjoying creating their own solutions.
Mathematics in the everyday world of play
Did you know that mathematics is present in almost every aspect of play? When a child builds with blocks, they create symmetries and rhythms. When they play with an abacus, they learn the basics of algebra. When they creatively arrange a sorter, they learn dependencies and classification. That is why it is so important that the toys surrounding our children are not only beautiful and durable, but also inspire learning through experience.
At BAJO, we believe that wooden toys are the key to developing imagination and mathematical skills that a child will be able to develop throughout their life.