Fun with math

Everyone knows that learning is easier when you can make it a game. This is a fun and easy game to practice addition, subtraction and later multiplication and division. All you need are a few basic supplies and a child who needs a little math practice.

My Kindergartner quickly picked up addition once he understood numbers. It has been fun to watch and I am always trying new ways to challenge him. So, as soon as I saw that he was learning subtraction we pulled out some dice to have a math practice session for his homework. Seeing the dice immediately made it more fun for him and the great thing about using the dice is that the dots are visually there for him to add together or subtract from.

What You Need:

• pencil
• sheet of paper
• 1 – 2 dice

Directions:

Step 2: Have your child roll one die and write that number in the first spot. Then have them roll the second die (or the first one again if using one die) and write that number in the second blank on the line. If the row they are working on is subtraction and your child does not understand negative numbers, yet, make sure they put the larger number in the first spot. It is just easier that way. =-)

Step 3: Let your child solve the equation. I know it is hard as a parent to not jump in, but let them figure it out. Remind them that they can use the dots on the dice to help them.

I’ll admit that my son was a bit frustrated with the game the first 4 or 5 rows, but once he got the hang of it he was asking for a “few more lines” and was eagerly trying to teach his 4 year old sister how to play. I also learned that when it came to subtraction, it helped if I said “take away” in stead of “minus” or “subtraction”. (i.e. “What is 4 take away 2?”) We will work our way up to understanding those other terms.

Alternative: Once your child understands the game have them teach you. We have had some fun with him telling me what I should do and helping me figure out each equation.

Question: What is your favorite way to practice math?