A series of learning activities used in grades one and two to teach number conservation and arithmetic are presented in detail. The activity sequence is based on working with one-to-one correspondences for a lengthy period before introducing arithmetic operation. The author claims the approach is very successful. (SD)

Discussed is research which shows, in contrast to the dominant impression given by Piaget's work, that before the onset of schooling the young child possesses several kinds of fundamental "intuitions" concerning numbers. (Author/TG)

Advocated is the use of everyday games and situations instead of the traditional use of textbooks, workbooks, and worksheets. New goals and principles for the beginning arithmetic student are presented. Modifications of activities that promote the constructivist ideal are included. (KR)