Development and pilot testing of the number farm: a numeracy screener for preschool-age children

Numeracy and math skills in the US, key predictors of academic and vocational success, are low and decreasing. Numeracy is not captured by general developmental screening, and no efficient, direct measure feasible for pediatric settings currently exists. In this pediatric primary care pilot, The Number Farm performed well in terms of psychometric validity, family acceptance, and relationships with home reading and math routines. The book-based approach of The Number Farm is family-centered, inexpensive, and scalable within existing literacy and early childhood education programs. These findings align with AAP recommendations to conduct developmental screening during clinic visits and promote school readiness.