Math can be fun - Page 1

I was searching for some blogs and discussions on how to teach math for small kids. There are N number of discussions on reading and writing. But unfortunately there are not many on math. So I thought of starting a thread with the tips on how to introduce math to preschoolers and kindergarteners.

I would also like the other parents to add their ideas in the thread.

I feel math is not only about counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication etc. It is also about pattern recognition, sequence identification, estimation, shapes, measurement, money, calendar, time, symmetry and many more.   Here are some of the tips which we use at home and school to make each topic interesting for my son by making use of things around us at home.

1.       Pattern recognition : We look around the house for some patterns and draw them. For example the patterns in the window, A/c duct, fence, table drawers, buildings, in a shirt, floor and wall tiles etc.

2.       Sequence identification: I draw pictures in a specific sequence and ask my son to find the next member of the sequence. First I used sequence of different pictures  Example repeat circle, triangle, square or car, bus, cycle or something similar to that and asked him to complete the sequence. To make it complex I use the same picture in the sequence with slight difference. For example draw sequence of flowers with different no of petals, or 3d object from different angle

3.       Estimation: I ask him to guess the number of stairs. Later we count and see whether the answer is right. Similarly we take turns in guessing  the no of coins in a box, how much time it takes to fill a cup (using a stop watch),  no of toys in a box, no of beads in a necklace etc.

4.       Shapes: we look around the house and draw the pictures of objects that are of specific shape Circular clock, circular coin, circular plate, rectangular photo frame, door, TV, AC, triangular block, triangular watch dial, triangular sandwich etc. we play I spy with shape as the main clue, we use different smaller shapes to make another shape. for example we use circle, semi circle, triangle, square, rectable etc to form a clown or a train or a building.

5.       Measurement : I make my son record his weight, height, the length of the room, length of the table, size of the window, temperature in the fridge and AC, measure ingredients while cooking etc. This is the best way to introduce the measuring tools such as scale, measuring tape, thermometer, measuring cups, weighing machine etc.  We use different sizes of cups to measure the same quantity and see how every time the no of cups varies depending on the size of the cup. This teaches him to learn about multiples of 2s and 5s.

6.       Money: I made him empty all our purse for the coins and find the different types of coins to draw their pictures. Drawing the pictures, helped him to  observe and remember which coin is what. Then we sorted them out. And I asked him to pick up money in different denominations. For example say there are 10 one rupee coins and 20  50 paise coins.  to take 150 paise or 500 paise.  Another activity is to role play as buyer and seller. We arrange some books on the table and my little one plays the role of a seller.

7.       Calendar: We mark important dates in the calendar like b’days, festivals etc. And the school specials like music art and PE classes. And my little one refers to it every day and also keeps track of his holidays.

8.       Sorting: Sort things based on different attributes such as shapes, size, color etc. We sort the clothes into light colored and dark colored clothes before laundry; sort the toys into cars and trucks and animal toys. The animals are again sorted based on type as wild, farm, or reptiles and insects, or carnivore herbivore etc. So we talk about attributes and how attributes define an object. And we talk about the mathematical terms such as larger, smaller, lighter, heavier, farther, closer, longer, shorter, hotter, colder etc ..

9.       Symmetry – We try to identify symmetrical and asymmetrical objects wherever we go. Leaf, face, coin, photo frame, book, TV, hand, shirt etc.

10.   Counting – We count anything and everything. The no of steps in the stairs, no of black cars, no of snacks, buttons in the shirt, no of children in the park, no of pages in a book etc.

11.   Time – We use the timer to complete many tasks such as completing home work, to cook, while taking turns to play with a toy, while watching a TV show etc. This helps the kids to understand the time duration

12.   Division – learn fractions by dividing pizza, or snack or play dough.

13.   Graph (this is done in his school every day)– draw graph of temperature vs date and see the weather trend . draw a graph of no of siblings vs classmates

14.   Directions – I made him draw a simple map to the play area from home and I asked him to use it while going to the play area. It’s really fun to see the details they include in the map.

These are some of the activities that make the kids realize that numbers are used everywhere. Home is the best place to teach them math. Timer in the oven & washing machine, temperature in the AC, oven, washing machine & fridge, Measuring cups, clocks, calendar, TV remote, telephone, house no, street no, pin code, car plate no, clothes size.  Math is everywhere..

Amazing Rosh Mom. Btw, how old your son is? and how much time you spent on him to teach all this....)

Hats off to you.

Mangala

hi roshmom..

im really becoming a fan for ur writing.. i was amazed when i read ur posts regarding How to teach ur child to read..

and now regarding math fun.. ur tips r useful and very easy to implement..

thanx a ton..

Amazing post!!! Thanks a lot Roshmom, for taking so much effoerts and write in details for all parents...I'm sure this will give good direction for parent like me to teach maths to our kids...

Thanks again!!

Again, i feel bad tht did not get chance to meet you

Thanks Mangala and Alsu.. My son is 5 yrs now. We did most of the activities during our summer vacation. But we continue to do the same activities in different situation or with different objects every day for 10 to 15 mins or during while going for a walk or while cooking or anytime my son is not in a mood to play alone.  When i started writing this post i didn't know that we have done this much. Even i was surprised at the length of the post and that 15 min a day can make so much difference.

Thanks sheetal for the url. But i'm not able to access it. May be the server is busy. I will try later.  Introducing Flag is a nice idea. We too have done with all the country flags.. Nice oppurtunity to teach the geography too. But he only remembers the ones where his friends or relatives live. :-(. But repetition is also important .. right.

Hey Mimmy thanks. As you said there is always a next time.

hi roshmom

that's really wonderful..btw did u do any course on this or still doing research, even i have become a fan of ur writing.. thanks a lot that was really helpful.

Awesome! Your kid is sooo lucky n if you start teaching other kids, no doubt, they'll forget home n start liking to be with u for how wonderfully you keep them engaged :)

@Roshmom..

OMG..have no words to tell how good you are at teaching..I ve become your fan too ..

Well, my son is 3.5,  but I have introduced addition and subtraction..using cryons , balls etc we keep adding and subtracting..

Your post is very helpful for all moms here..Thanks a tonn..

amzing job roshmom!! i am a fan of yours too :)

there is this site i like a lot for teaching maths..thought would share http://www.ixl.com/ with you all.

Dear Roshmom,

I am amazed with not just the knowledge shared through your post, but even more about the willingness and enthusiasm to share it ! Great going - and it was great to see so many methods which can be incorporated into the child's daily routine without putting "studying" pressure on the child - thank you !!

Aparna

Hi Aparna, Aanchal, crazymom, nila  and Jinnani,

Thanks all for your kind words. I am glad that the tips are helpful to you all.  Jinnani, I didn't do any course. But like reading books on early childhood development.  So as and when i find something interesting i take a note of it and use them. Many innovative methods are used in my son's school too. I have some more tips to add to the list. Am on vacation now. Will add them later. Hope they will also be helpful. Happy Teaching :-)...

hi roshmom,

i really feel like meeting and get more tips on such things from u thanks for ur reply happy vacation

hi roshmom, i'm truelly impressed by the way u hv written on teaching maths.  many things that u hv mentioned never occured to me.  its a great n fun way to teach kids....thanx a million......pls do keep posting many more useful infos.  my daughter is also 5 yrs old n i wish u were my neighbour...so that v cud regularly interact.

am really amazed by seeing ur tips....actually i didnt have an idea that we can teach them like this also.....keep posting new techniques....thanks a alot for sharing...i think i need to wait for some more time for teaching my son as he is just 2yrs 10 months....

Hi Roshmom,

My hearty congrats for initiating this amazimg blog.i am new to this.My daughter just turned 4yrs.she can do single digit addition and subtraction by drawing lines next to number and count them.can you tell me how to teach before and after numbers also.What is the syllabus at this ag in indian schools?can you pls help me out as i am staying in US i want her to learn according to indian standards soon will be relocating.

Thanks

Poorniishi

Hi Poorni,

To teach after or before number, the repetition of number series is the key. We used to count everything very often. and for reverse counting, we used to count it reverse from 20 while he is drinking the milk for every sip. again while climbing the stairs, or while using a stop watch we count it in reverse. so automatically they get the after and before numbers.  The next idea might sound silly. But i have found this very effective. we play rummy with only the number cards. so the kids learn to sequence the numbers, larger, smaller, equal numbers easily. You can use the  palying cards to make her form a number sequence.

Regarding the syllabus in India i am also not very sure as we too stay outside india. In my son's school the following is the syllabus for Kindergarten (UKG).  Counting 1 to 100, skip counting till 100 by 2s and 5s and 10s , reverse counting from 30, introduction of 0 and negative numbers, simple addition (without carryover), simple subtraction, drawing bar chart, introduction of money(just to identify the coins and to do simple addition,  analog and digital clocks, estimation, using measuring tools, describing events using probability terms such as certain, possible, impossible, characteristics and properties of 2d and 3d geometrical shapes.  

Hi Roshmom,

I had ear-marked your post for reference to teach my little one....and I think this should be posted as a blog on PT for quick reference !! There is a wealth of information.

I am paused at the moment with my son and am not too sure if I should move on to the next step. He can count unassisted up to 20 and can go up further to 30 if prompted. I was wondering if I should bring in addition basics just now or familiarise him with the number chart that takes him up to 100. Do not want to confuse him in the process. I noticed when I started him with irregular plurals I added in the aspect of uncertainty for him when it came to regular plurals.

I guess pattern recognition and symmetry identification would be a good way to keep him progressing and busy.

We are still struggling on colors - every now & then he does identify them correctly (early in the morning or when it is the old reference charts he has) but that is just very rare...I only hope that is not a learning disability at his end.  

Thanks Roshmom,

Ur ideas are truly amazing and material to be used so accessible.. that would inspire any mom...

For all mom s on this post, there is Centre for Learning resources in Pune, India. They have nice books of activities and materials. Basically their approach of teaching is also different. Do check with them.

Hi...

Its gr8 to be part of this discussion..

nice tips Roshmom..

will you give me some tips how to make writing and reading interesting to a kid...

specialy writing..as my kiddo feels writing  very boring..:)

Hi Chaitali,

There are a lot of discussions on reading and writing in PT. Hope the following urls would help..

http://www.parentree.in/Parentree-editors/journal-817/15-fun-ways-to-help-teach-your-child-write.html
http://www.parentree.in/groupdiscussion-4888/How-to-make-a-6-yr--old-to-write-and-also-improve-her-handwriting.html
http://www.parentree.in/Parentree-editors/journal-824/Help-big-kids-improve-their-writing-skills.html

http://www.parentree.in/groupdiscussion-3859/How-to-cultivate-reading-habits-in-the-young-minds.html
http://www.parentree.in/Parentree-editors/journal-118/Learn-to-read---Children--2-to-4-years-.html
http://www.parentree.in/groupdiscussion-5233/learn-to-read.html
 

Hi Roshmom,

Just saw this thread, must say really good info..such a fun way of teaching maths to kids. Looking forward to your next post.

Hi Aanchal ,

www.ixl.com is allowing only for few practices. After that its coming out and suggesting to for member ship which is monthly and yearly basis. Are you also paying for it?

Hi roshmom,

its an awesome post ,really im so happy and relieved by seeing this,my kid has confusion with before numbers,everytime i teach her i donno the actual method or strategy to teach but im sure ur idea s gonna save me from tensions and also i would like to thank aanchal for the site.plz do keep posting useful tips bcos that may help so many parents who struggle with the lil ones

Mind Blowing !!  Thanks a ton Roshmom...  cheers,mickey

Hi Roses,

Sorry I missed your post.  For teaching colors I have a few suggestions. Teach him colors through his favourite things or something that is related to him. For example white teeth, black hair, green frog, blue sky, red car or something which is his favourite . etc. and while talking to him always refer the color. Instead of saying leaf, say green leaf.... Usually kids take a little more time to learn colors. So don't worry. it's surely not a learning disability.  when my little one went for his preschool readiness interview at 2.3 yrs he knew only black, white, grey, blue and green.  You can also use colored beads or blocks and play some game. for example tell him to pick up 5 red beads. He will learn to count as well as to identify the color. Reward him with a star for every correct answer.  I am sure you must be having the book Brown bear brown bear what do you see by eric carle. there is another board book by eric carle (I think the title is Colors) which is divided into 2 parts and the kids can match the top page (has colored rectangle) with the bottom page (has things in different color)..  I found it very useful for teaching colors.   

hi roshmom,

 u r an amazing mom,u come out with so many ideas.thanks a lot for sharing this with us.

Continuation –
This vacation we played some number games.

15.  we played board games such as snake and ladders and ludo. What I found is my little one was sometimes able to move the coins without even counting. Snake and ladders is the best board game for smaller children as you can teach them number sequence, counting, addition and also teach them to find the no of squares without counting (this ofcourse comes by practice). Thro board games, they can learn to follow the rules/ instructions, start analyzing every move and learn to accept the defeat when they are being cut (as in Ludo) or being bitten by snake (snake & ladders)

16. Play a game with some coins to teach them various addition factors. To play the game first pick up some coins (say 4). Show them to your child. And then hide some of the coins and show the rest. Ask him/her how many are hidden. This helps them to learn to add and subtract very fast and also learn the addition factors i.e 1+ 3 & 2+2 & 3+1 will all give the same answer. Once they are comfortable with 4 coins move on to the next no and play the game all over again. Say 6. Let them learn the factors 1+5, 2+4, 3+3, 4+2, 5+1. And so on

17. Play a game of counting. Ask your child to start counting from a random number (say 47) instead of from 1. You have to tell him to STOP after a while. Till you say stop, he has to count without mistakes. Take turns. Play this game for reverse counting.  Ask your child to count in reverse order from 10 to start with and count up to 1. Then move on to 20 and start counting and so on. Let your child take his own time in finding the previous number. But the only rule is not to make any mistakes.

18. Play a card game with as many people as you want. Distribute all the cards evenly. Do not see the card. Keep all the cards with the face down. And one of you start putting a card with face up. Continue till everyone has finished putting the card. The one who has put the greatest no will take all the cards. Start the game with the person who took all the cards. Play until one person gathers all the cards and that last person will be the winner.  Thro this game kids learn to follow the greater or smaller or equal to rules and start eliminating the cases after every card is put down and finally they find who can pick the card up.  

19. my mom taught this when I was small. To know the number of days in each month, you make a fist and show the knuckles at the base of your finger (with the fist facing down). You will see 4 knuckles. Start saying the month names for each knuckle and the joint between the knuckles. Each will represent Jan, march, may, july, aug, oct and dec – These months will have 31 days. And the joints will represent  feb, apr, jun, sep and nov- except for feb, all others will have 30 days. Till July it will be one round of counting and start counting again from aug for the first knuckle and go on till dec. I’m sure kids will never forget. hope this isn't confusing..

Here are some more ideas for fun games to teach math..

20.  Play a game with dice. You need 2 dices. Both you and your child roll one of the dices and the one who tells first which number is bigger will get a point. For every wrong answer give -1 point. Continue the game and in the end count to see who wins. Other variation is one of you has to say the bigger no and other has to say the smaller number, but with no mistake.  For a little bigger kids, you can ask for the answer for addition of 2 numbers, or subtraction of 2 numbers.  It will be real fun to see how they enjoy this activity.  Recently I played this game with my son. I purposely made mistakes or would take some time to answer to give him a chance. He really loved this addition game.  Another option is to use just one dice and make them say the number that comes before or after.

21. Very small children will love to play dominoes.  Make them identify the group of objects (dots) without counting the dots. 

22. Play another board game called number tug of war (for 2 players).  Draw a little bigger circle in the middle and 20 to 50 smaller circles on either side of the bigger circle (one set of circles for each player) and write nos from 1 to 20 or 50(depending on the nunber of circles). Each person should choose a coin and keep them in the middle. Now u need 2 dices and u need to mark the sides of one of the dices with 1, 3, and 5 with + and the rest of the sides with -. Use the other dice as it is. Roll both the dices and see what no u get.  if it’s + 3, move forward 3 places.  If it’s negative number move backwards. Continue the game till one of the players reach the last circle with number 20 or 50 at their side.

23. Make your own board game with your little one’s help and ask him what all rules he wants to formulate. We made a car Race game.  We had a race track drawn on a chart and the numbers from 1 to 50 were marked. We added rules like, a) You hit the tree. So miss a turn to take rest. b) You are off the track go back 3 spaces, or go back to the start position.  c) You have increased your speed. Move forward to number 20 etc.. We used dice to move the coins forward and the one who reaches the finish line is the winner.  Get help from ur kid in drawing the tracks or coloring them.

24.  To learn ordinal numbers, arrange some toys in a row and ask your child to pick up the object by mentioning the ordinal number or give directions like pick the 3rd object from the right or pick up the one in the middle, or pick up all the objects that are at both the ends. etc.. For a little bigger children, you can ask them to pick up the objects in the position of the even number or odd nos.

25. Data collection : Ask your child to give a list of 5 or 6 fruits or vegetables and write them in a paper and make her to take the data from different about their favorite fruit from the list.  After collecting the data from atleast 10 people, ask question from the data such as which is the most favorite among everyone, which is least favorite, which all fruits have same no of votes etc.

26. Direction: To teach a small kid left and right directions, play a game by blind folding the child and keeping an object at a distance.  Now make her stand in a starting position and give her directions such as one step forward, move one step to your right, one step to your left etc until she reaches the destination.  Take turns. By giving directions to you or by following the directions given by you, the child would learn the directions fast. 

Thanks a ton Roshmom!!! 26 innovative games....

I'm still working with first 14 ideas...so much to do now...

Thanks a lot  to Roshmom for ur innovative ideas...

Hi Roshmom....

I hv become a fan of you

i think you could  help me ... my son is 2.4 yrs old . He knows ABC , Numbers 1 to 20 , basic shapes and colors , animals, also he would identify pictures inthe books i have for him(brandon series 1a and 1b)...he wolud like to watch Super why,Winie the pooh,Noody aswell .I want to take him to the next level in allthe ways ... would u guide me ? But he is not sitting with me !!!

Sangeethaarun