Math is a subject of vital importance. A 2009 article in the Wall Street Journal revealed that math proficiency in the United States is lacking. Give your child a good foundation in math by teaching him the basics when he is young. Eventually, he will be able to perform geometry, trigonometry and even calculus as he moves through his school career.
Importance
Your child needs a good grasp of mathematical concepts for her future. Careers in the sciences, financial industry, medical professions and engineering require advanced math skills. Your child cannot perform advanced math skills until she has a good, basic foundation. Children without a proper math foundation may be unable to excel in their studies. If your child wants to be a veterinarian, but does not have the required math background, she may be unable to fulfill her dream.
Understanding Numbers
The identification of single digit numbers is a basic skill. Teach your preschooler to count from one to 10 by counting out loud with him. Help him understand that a group of objects represents a numeral, explains the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Once he begins to recognize numbers, give him three crackers and a set of flash cards. Ask him to find the card that corresponds to the number of crackers. Repeat with other numbers. Teach him to count by 10s and then to 100.
Basic Math
Once she understands the concepts of numbers and one-to-one correspondence, teach your child basic addition and subtraction. Use the method recommended by Nancy Larson, author of "Saxon Math K." Teach your child "some-some more" and "some-some went away." Give her a pile of plastic blocks. Ask her to put three blocks on the table. Tell her to put two more down and count the blocks. Explain this is a "some-some more" story and that she is adding. Repeat with other numbers and subtract by taking blocks away. Draw a number line on a sheet of paper and show her that she can count up and down the number line to add and subtract. Use flash cards once she understands addition and subtraction.
Strategies
As you interact with your child throughout the day, use everyday activities to teach basic math skills. When you make cookies, show her how to read the measurements. Teach her the concept of dozens by counting eggs, and early multiplication skills by explaining that one week has seven days and two weeks has 14 days. Ask her to help you gather coupons for the grocery store, and let her count your change when you return home.
Considerations
Your child may not appear to enjoy math. Show him that you like math and set the expectation that math scores and proficiencies are important to you. This can help him develop an enthusiasm for math, states a U.S. Department of Education publication. Join a co-op, and include math games and activities during your meetings. Ask other family members show excitement over your child's math skills.
