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Early Math Love
Bridging Gaps in Gender, Research, and Equity in Early Math & STEM.
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Early Math Love
Reggio Emilia-Inspired Consulting & Workshops
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From Research to Practice: Instilling a Love of Math in the Early Years
Welcome!
I’m Lola Alvarez, a Reggio Emilia-inspired practitioner and consultant with a passion for early mathematics and a focus on addressing gender disparities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics). With years of experience as an educator, coach, and consultant, I aim to inspire curiosity and mathematical engagement in young learners while equipping educators with the tools to foster this growth.
Advancing Racial Justice in Early Math
I am proud to support the Racial Justice in Early Mathematics – Call to Action, an initiative from the Erikson Math Institute in Chicago, Illinois, advocating for equitable and culturally responsive early math education.
My commitment to this cause was recognized at the First National Meeting on Racial Justice in Early Math, where my proposal, “Bridging Gender Gaps in STEM: Empowering Spatial Reasoning Skills in Early Childhood Education,” was selected for presentation. This work highlights the importance of fostering spatial reasoning from an early age to create more inclusive opportunities in math and science.
Join me in taking action! By clicking the link and signing, we pledge to seek out, participate in, and create opportunities to advance this Call. We embrace anti-racism, committing to ongoing self-examination and bold actions that challenge white supremacy, anti-Blackness, and all forms of racial oppression.
Why Early Math Love?
At Early Math Love, we believe that a strong foundation in math begins in early childhood, long before formal schooling. Research shows that early math skills are one of the strongest predictors of later academic success—not just in math but across all subjects. Yet, early math is often overlooked in favor of literacy, leaving many young children without the rich, engaging experiences that foster a deep love and understanding of mathematical thinking.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between research and practice, equipping educators and caregivers with the knowledge, strategies, and resources to nurture joyful, confident young mathematicians. We translate cutting-edge research into developmentally appropriate, play-based, and culturally responsive approaches that support children’s natural curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Through Early Math Love, we seek to:
• Empower educators and caregivers with evidence-based strategies that enhance children’s spatial reasoning, number sense, and logical thinking.
• Demystify math by showing how everyday moments—like building with blocks, playing with puzzles, or exploring patterns in nature—can be rich mathematical experiences.
• Promote equity in early STEM learning, ensuring that all children, especially girls and underrepresented groups, develop confidence in their mathematical abilities.
• Foster a lifelong love for math by making early math learning playful, engaging, and meaningful.
By bringing research-based best practices into homes, classrooms, and learning spaces, Early Math Love supports the next generation of problem solvers, innovators, and thinkers—one joyful math experience at a time.
The Research Behind Early Math Education and STEM Success
Research shows that early spatial skills are key to success in STEM, and the earlier we start developing them, the better. My approach focuses on using hands-on, visual activities that strengthen critical math and problem-solving skills. I’m also committed to breaking down gender barriers in STEM – studies show that with the right support, we can help all children build confidence in their spatial abilities.
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Through my workshops, I combine practical strategies with research-backed methods to help educators create meaningful learning experiences that inspire children and open doors to the exciting world of STEM. Let’s work together to grow a love for math and create endless possibilities for every child!
