Building blocks for young children's mathematical development

This article describes the design principles behind a set of research-based software microworlds included in the Building Blocks program, a PreK to grade 2 software-based mathematics curriculum. Building Blocks' approach is finding the mathematics in, and developing mathematics from, children's activity. The materials are designed to help children extend and mathematize their everyday activities, from building blocks to art to songs and stories to puzzles. The 9-step design process model that defines what we mean by "research-based" is described and illustrated.