- 27 Jan, 2026
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Key Stage 1 Maths Explained: What Your Child Learns in Years 1 and 2 (KS1)
Key Stage 1 (KS1) is a crucial stage in your child’s maths journey. Covering Year 1 and Year 2 (ages 5–7), KS1 maths focuses on building strong number sense, confidence, and problem-solving skills through practical and engaging learning. Rather than memorising formulas, children learn to understand maths and apply it to everyday situations.
What Is Key Stage 1 Maths?
KS1 maths lays the foundation for all future mathematical learning. At this stage, children:
- Explore numbers and patterns
- Learn through hands-on activities
- Develop logical thinking
- Begin explaining how they got an answer
The goal is not speed, but clarity and confidence.
Year 1 Maths: Building the Basics
In Year 1, children are introduced to core concepts in a simple and visual way.
Number & Place Value
- Counting forwards and backwards up to 100
- Reading and writing numbers
- Understanding tens and ones
- Comparing numbers using greater than (>), less than (<), and equal to (=)
Addition & Subtraction
- Adding and subtracting within 20
- Using number lines and objects
- Understanding number bonds (pairs that make 10 or 20)
Multiplication & Division (Introduction)
- Learning through grouping and sharing
- Counting in 2s, 5s, and 10s
- Understanding “equal groups” (not formal tables yet)
Geometry (Shapes)
- Recognising 2D shapes (circle, square, triangle, rectangle)
- Exploring 3D shapes (cube, cuboid, sphere, cone)
- Describing shapes using sides, corners, and faces
Measurement
- Comparing length, weight, and capacity
- Using everyday language like longer, shorter, heavier, lighter
Year 2 Maths: Strengthening Understanding
Year 2 builds on Year 1 concepts and encourages deeper thinking.
Number & Place Value
- Working confidently with numbers up to 100
- Understanding tens and ones more clearly
- Ordering numbers and finding missing numbers
Addition & Subtraction
- Adding and subtracting two-digit numbers
- Solving word problems
- Checking answers using inverse operations
Multiplication & Division
- Learning 2, 5, and 10 times tables
- Solving simple multiplication and division problems
- Understanding repeated addition
Fractions
- Recognising halves, quarters, and thirds
- Finding fractions of shapes and small numbers
Measurement & Time
- Reading clocks (o’clock, half past, quarter past)
- Using money
- Measuring using standard units (cm, m, g, kg, ml, l)
Data Handling
- Reading simple pictographs and bar charts
- Answering questions based on data
How KS1 Maths Is Taught
KS1 maths focuses heavily on learning by doing:
- Using counters, cubes, and number lines
- Drawing pictures to explain thinking
- Solving real-life problems like shopping or sharing food
This approach helps children truly understand maths instead of memorising steps.
Why KS1 Maths Is So Important
A strong KS1 foundation helps children:
- Feel confident with numbers
- Develop logical reasoning
- Avoid maths anxiety in later years
- Transition smoothly into Key Stage 2
Children who understand the why behind maths concepts perform better long-term.
How Parents Can Support KS1 Maths at Home
You don’t need to be a maths expert! Simple activities make a big difference:
- Count stairs, toys, or coins together
- Ask your child to explain their thinking
- Use board games involving numbers
- Encourage mistakes as part of learning
Consistency and encouragement matter more than speed or perfection.
Supporting Your Child’s Maths Journey
Key Stage 1 maths is about helping children feel confident, curious, and happy to try. When maths feels fun and manageable, children build strong foundations that stay with them as they grow. Knowing what your child learns in Years 1 and 2 helps you support them at home in simple, meaningful ways. At eduSeed, we make this journey easier by guiding children step by step, using clear explanations, hands-on activities, and child-friendly methods that turn maths into something they enjoy and understand.