Young children perceive the learning process differently, so it is important to accustom them to math lessons as early as possible. But it is better to do it in a more creative and even playful way. It is important not to lose the attention of the child and show him the exciting studying process. There are many techniques and ways to show children the world of mathematics. Literacy in kindergarten is essential for teaching children math, as it provides them with the foundation they need to understand and solve math problems.
14 Methods to Teach Your Child Math
Your child is very receptive to any information, so it is important to present it in parts and in a more understandable way. Show him that learning can be fun so that he is ready for school. Mathematics can be understood by everyone if you use simple and affordable methods. To overcome stage fear while teaching your children math, practice your lessons in front of a mirror or with a friend until you feel comfortable. These 14 ways will be a good solution for you, given that you can teach without being distracted from everyday affairs:
- Make a to-do list for the day and have your child number each item. It will be better if you add bright stickers or felt-tip pens.
- When your child washes his hands, you can ask him to count to 15-20. It will be a good habit to wash your hands better. It will also be one of the steps towards discipline.
- Many children do not brush their teeth for a long time and this is where a baby timer can help. It can be a funny hourglass or a small digital timer. The child will count the time on the scoreboard and get used to brushing his teeth longer. It will also be interesting for him to observe how many teeth have already grown if you count them together.
- The best time is the process of putting on clothes. Count each item, button, rivet or lace. Tell your child about the shapes, colors and sizes of small items. For example, a small round button or a long blue scarf.
- When you are preparing a meal, ask your child to count the number of cups of flour or spoons of sugar. This will allow him not only to be part of the process, but in parallel to perceive the numbers and units of measurement in cooking. It can also be shown here that counting cups on both sides will not change their number – reinforcing the concept of order irrelevance.
- Cleaning a room or house is boring, ask your child to count the number of objects you have cleaned together. Describe these objects: a square wardrobe, a rectangular bed, a round flower pot.
- Taking a bath can be fun if you add educational toys. Count them, judge their colors and shapes.
- Read a bedtime story. There are special stories based on mathematics.
- Get ready for bed together, fluff up the pillows, prepare a blanket. There are special children’s nightlights where the child can watch the timer.
- Standing in line at the supermarket is boring for you and your child. Count the number of products in the basket or determine the size of each of them. If you are stuck in a traffic jam, count the number of cars of a certain color.
- Ask your child to help sort laundry after washing. Let him take part and talk about things of a certain color or size. Count the amount of laundry in each pile or the number of buttons.
- Your child can help set the table. Ask him to count the number of spoons, tell about the colors of the plates or napkins. If you are expecting 2 guests and now there are three of you, how many forks will need to be added.
- The process of eating can also be educational. Show your child mathematical ratios. How many potatoes are on his plate, how many sausages. Show one third, half, discuss how much juice is in his glass.
- Ask your child to help you clear the dishes after dinner. Count how many dishes you have already washed, how many are left dirty. Wipe plates together and count them as well.
Everyday activities can be combined with learning math and you will find many ways to do this even for the youngest children. Most importantly, pay attention to his development but do not forget that it should be fun for him.
Conclusion
Your child is just starting to explore the world, show him this in a more understandable way. No need to force him to do something reluctantly. This will give him a negative attitude towards the learning process. Imagine everything in his usual daily activities and he will learn quickly. Also many experts have found unique methods of presenting information. One of them you can find on the website. There are many simple and straightforward online programs for self-study mathematics from Pre-k to Grade 5 by Singapore methodic. Try different ways to teach your child math in a day-to-day manner.