For many people, math is not a fun subject. The use of algebra, relative numbers, and even fractions can seem needlessly complicated. But, the truth is that math is an essential skill for life. It is used daily, even if you don’t appreciate that you are using it.
The good news is that you don’t need to be a math genius to get a good basic understanding of math that will serve you well through life. In fact, the best way to ensure your child has the basics they need is to teach them while they are young and their brains will easily absorb information.
It should be noted that the following 4 simple techniques can be done at home. But, these can be reinforced by enrolling your child with a reputable early learning centre, such as this child care Liverpool.
- Building Blocks
Building blocks have been a staple of children’s playtime for years. While the blocks may have improved the principle remains the same. Children can stack blocks to improve motor skills and it’s fun. They can count the blocks they are stacking and visualize adding or subtracting blocks from their pile.
This introduces them to basic addition and subtraction skills on mathswatch.
- Outside Play
There are plenty of fun activities you and your child can do outside. This includes hopscotch, water play, running, and even playing with sand.
In all these activities there is the opportunity for children to recognize shapes, count the number of items, add and subtract items, and even gain a grasp of the principle of multiplication and division.
The key is to keep it fun and light-hearted but to gently prompt your child into counting the numbers and manipulating them.
It won’t just give them basic math skills, it can create an interest in math which will help them throughout life.
- Shopping
Children love doing what adults do. They will often mimic people and this can be a great way to learn. When shopping you can make a game that helps your child to learn. For example, you can tell them the price of an item and get them to round it up. You can also get them to add up two items to find a total.
This does more than show them basic math, it also shows them that math is relevant in every day life. That can help them to commit to learning and excel.
- Drawing By Numbers
Drawing is a great way to express creativity and allow your child to express themselves. It can also be a tool to help them learn math and its daily application. Give your child a task to draw so many items or get them to join the dots, which are usually numbered in order. They can even do this backward if they prefer.
This helps them familiarize themselves with numbers and will make it easier for them to grasp more complex concepts in the future.
