Math is a subject that some children learn easily, while others seem to struggle. Early math involves simple concepts, such as identifying numbers, counting, addition and subtraction. The PBS website, Misunderstood Minds, stresses the importance of children having a good foundation in early math concepts to avoid struggling later. Fortunately, you do not need a teaching degree to help your child learn the math processes and concepts that will get her off to a good start.
Step 1
Sit down with your child and teach him to recognize the numbers one through 10. Use a children's counting book, a 100-number chart or flash cards. When he can recognize his numbers, teach him the concept of a digit representing objects. Write down a single-digit number on a piece of paper. Ask him to say the number aloud. Give him a pile of pretzels and tell him to put the corresponding number of pretzels by the piece of paper. Repeat with all the single-digit numbers and 10, until he can successfully complete the task.
Step 2
Teach your child how to add and subtract using coins or small toys. Nancy Larson, author of "Saxon Math K," recommends playing story games with your child. Give your child five small cars or dolls. Ask her to put three toys on the table and pretend they are at a park. Tell her to have two more toys join the others. Count the toys together and write "3+2=5" on a board. Include subtraction stories and vary the numbers used.
Step 3
Use flash cards and a number line to teach your child the addition and subtraction facts. Having quick recall of basic facts can help him complete his school homework without getting frustrated over simple facts. Tom Loveless with the Brooking Institution says that basic math skills are vital for advanced math and future learning success. Make learning facts fun by doing a little each day and rewarding his good effort. Display the "1+6" flash card and show him on the number line how to start at one and move forward six to reach seven. Repeat with all the facts until he is proficient.
Step 4
Play math games and use math manipulatives with your child. Advance from board games where he counts his moves, to playing games with dice, counters and playing cards, as recommended by Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. Let him roll dice and count the dots to practice addition. Use playing cards to help with number identification as you play war. Use egg cartons to put buttons in and group the buttons by five's, two's and 10's.
Tips and Warnings
- Sing counting songs with your child. Identify numbers around the house and in stores. Use everyday activities like setting the table to practice counting.
- Ask your school system for an evaluation if you suspect a learning disability.
Things You'll Need
- Children's counting book
- 100-number chart
- Flash cards
- Paper
- Pretzels
- Coins
- Small toys
- Chalk or white board
- Board games
- Dice
- Counters
- Playing cards
- Egg carton
- Buttons
References
- PBS: Misunderstood Minds: Difficulties with Mathematics
- Math and Reading Help: Fun Ways to Learn Math
- "Saxon Math K"; Nancy Larson; 1994
- U.S. Department of Education: Trends in Math Achievement: The Importance of Basic Skills
- Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute: Multi-Sensory Manipulatives in Mathematics: Linking the Abstract to the Concrete
