5 Reasons Foundational Literacy and Numeracy are Key to Early Education
Introduction
The early years of a child’s development shape the foundation for their entire learning journey. In the early years of schooling, establishing a strong educational foundation is essential to provide children with the essential skills to think, communicate, and solve problems. This academic journey begins with two core abilities: foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN).
According to the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024, only 60% of the children in India can perform and identify math exercises, revealing how the early learning gap widens as children progress through school. It forms the basis for children’s future learning, preparing them for the complexities beyond the curriculum.
What Is Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)?
The term Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) refers to the ability of children to read, write, understand and apply basic mathematical concepts by grade 3, such as counting, comparing, measuring and problem-solving, in everyday life. These essential skills form the foundation for children in fundamental literacy and numeracy, supporting their academic growth and competency.
Recognising this, NEP 2020 makes it a priority for the entire education system, aiming for universal foundational literacy and numeracy in India, with primary schools achieving it by the end of 2025. A strong FLN ensures that every child learns well and progresses smoothly and confidently through school.
5 Reasons Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Are Key to Early Education
- Cognitive Development and Critical Thinking – Early thinking habits form the foundation for children’s critical thinking, as they learn and develop skills. When they learn to read a simple sentence or identify numbers, they are also learning to observe, question, compare, and reason.
- Academic Success Across All Subjects – Strong foundational learning helps students to learn independently. Children who can read, understand, and interpret stories, and recognise number patterns, can confidently participate in teaching activities across various subjects.
- Socio-Emotional Development and Self-Confidence – With foundational numeracy, children feel a sense of achievement when they read the first paragraph or solve a maths problem on their own. It builds confidence and encourages them to participate in the class actively. Strong FLN skills allow children to express themselves more clearly, understand others better, and develop a positive attitude towards learning.
- Reducing Educational Inequalities – Foundational literacy reduces the early learning inequalities, especially for children from underserved communities. When every child gets equal access to strong foundational learning, regardless of their home environment, they begin to choose every opportunity.
- Lifelong Learning and Economic Empowerment – FLN goes beyond school learning, creating long-term opportunities for the children. Adults with strong FLN skills can make better-informed decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, and enhance the overall quality of their lives.
Strong language literacy and numeracy skills enhance children’s overall quality of life, allowing them to seize every opportunity and contribute to society.
Common Challenges Children Face Without FLN
When children do not acquire strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills in the early years, the impact is felt throughout their learning journey. Some of the most common challenges include:
1. Difficulty understanding classroom instructions – Children who struggle to read fluently or identify basic numbers find it difficult to follow lessons, complete worksheets, or understand the teacher’s instructions. This creates early confusion that grows with each grade and hinders their learning.
2. Reliance on memorisation instead of understanding – Without FLN, children often depend on the rote learning method. They repeat answers without grasping concepts, which limits their ability to apply knowledge in new situations or think creatively.
3. Low confidence and disengagement – When children struggle to read or solve basic maths problems, it negatively impacts their self-esteem. And many of them refrain from participating in classroom activities, losing all interest in learning.
4. Widening learning gaps in higher grades – As subjects become more complex with the grades, children without early FLN skills fall further behind. Difficulty in reading impacts science and social studies, while weak number skills affect reasoning and problem-solving across subjects.
5. Limited real-life application – Weak FLN learning affects their ability to navigate daily life confidently. It impacts their real life as they face challenges in reading signboards, counting money, or measuring items while purchasing.
Role of Teachers in Strengthening FLN
Teachers stand at the frontline of this mission. Their role extends beyond instructions, creating nurturing, inclusive learning environments for the children. Under the NISHTHA programme, 12.97 lakh teachers have been trained specifically for foundational learning, helping classrooms shift toward play-based and competency-driven teaching methods.
When teachers are trained with structured training and the right tools, foundational learning becomes more inclusive and joyful for the children. At Sampark, with our Smartshala App and AI-driven Speak English program, teachers are empowered to guide children more effectively with innovative learning methods.
How Sampark Foundation Supports FLN in Government Schools
Sampark Foundation strengthens foundational learning and numeracy skills by supporting the government schools with innovative, simple and engaging learning tools. Our six innovations are designed to make learning an engaging, fun and interactive experience for children. Providing them with an environment where they learn to express themselves and actively participate in the learning process.
At Sampark Foundation, we aim to empower both teachers and children to create a structured learning environment that lays a strong foundation for children’s future. Combining innovative tools with easy pedagogy learning methods, we’ve made 76% of the schools follow and teach according to the plan.
Conclusion
Foundational literacy and numeracy skills are essential for every child’s early growth and development. It gives children the opportunity to express themselves, understand others and develop a strong educational foundation.
At Sampark Foundation, we ensure early learning is joyful, simple, and effective for every child. Helping them build a future full of opportunities and improved quality of life. With the teacher’s support and effective learning methods, Sampark ensures that effective learning reaches every classroom.
