We’ve all had problems with math at some point or another. The fact is that many people do not like and think they do not understand mathematics. We have always thought that we were “not math people”, but that’s certainly not true. The problem is that we have never really practiced math with a solid understanding and without pressure. Do not make the same mistake with your children. Here are seven sneaky ways to get your kids excited about math:
1. Introduce Your Kids To Everyday Math
We use math all the time, every single day. It’s easy to forget how often we actually use math when we’re out of school. That means that we should not present math as something abstract to kids. “If you have two apples and I give you two more, how many apples do you have?” You probably heard this sentence many times. It’s actually not a bad approach. It’s the perfect way to introduce kids to math.
2. Present Numbers As Something Interesting
When children see numbers, they often see it as something difficult and bad. That’s the reason why you have to present numbers to them as something interesting and fun. Write down numbers with them and maybe paint them and decorate them. Believe it or not, it could change their whole perception of math.
3. Teach Smartly
This is a very important step. Every parent should practice math with their kids at home, but parents must educate themselves first. They should know what their kids are learning in school or preschool to help them in the most effective way. This way you can make sure you know how to do the math yourself so you can teach it the correct way. If you’re nervous about your ability to help your kids with math, try finding an online math tutor. You can work with the tutor alone before helping your child, or you and your child can work on the tutoring assignments together as a way of bonding.
4. Praise Them
Everyone likes to get praise. It makes us happy and it shows us that we’ve done something good. Kids are going to have much more confidence and eagerness for math if you praise them often. It’s as simple as that.
5. Play Math Games
Games are the most effective tool when it comes to the education of children. By playing games, kids are going to learn math without feeling like it’s a chore. It is the perfect way to get your kid excited about math. This is another situation in which an online math tutor can help if you aren’t sure what kind of games are best for you child’s skill level. A tutor can help you find resources or teach you games for you to play with your child.
6. Be An Example
Kids are always watching their parents. If you enjoy math it will help a lot to convince your child that math is a positive thing. This is actually not that hard as it may seem. From time to time say something about math to someone in front of your children. Maybe this seems too crazy to you, but children will finally see math as something important.
7. Don’t Force Them
This is very important. Nothing from this list will work if you force anything on your children. It will actually cause a counter effect. Be friendly and relaxed when it comes to math. That’s the best advice you can actually get.
Math is very important. It helps in the development of intellectual abilities, and it helps with the development of cognitive processes. We can all agree that every kid is smart, talented, and special in their own way. That leads us to the conclusion that we must not force them into anything they don’t feel comfortable with. But considering that we know how important math is, we absolutely must help them to develop on every level. Good luck!