There’s a real lack of math learning in pre-K. In one study, in fact, just 58 seconds out of a full preschool day was spent on math activities. (Kaylhew/Flikr Creative Commons)

By Anya Kamenetz, NPR

Little children are big news this week, as the White House holds a summit on early childhood education December 10. The President wants every four year old to go to preschool, but the new Congress is unlikely to foot that bill.

Since last year, more than 30 states have expanded access to preschool. But there’s still a lack of evidence about exactly what kinds of interventions are most effective in those crucial early years.

In New York City, an ambitious, $25 million dollar study is collecting evidence on the best way to raise outcomes for kids in poverty. Their hunch is that it may begin with math.

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