Parenting a Future Mathematics Genius
Math Games and Activities to Prepare for Kindergarten
Nov 11, 2009
Engaging a child with simple Math activities and games will provide the building blocks for later mathematical success. Without needing special materials or a lot of time a parent can integrate these easy activities into a child's daily routine. The following are six ways to improve a child's Math readiness before school.
Compare Toys and Items
More, less, heavier and lighter are important principles in Mathematics. When a child is two or three years old, start talking about these principles. Mention that this bowl has more cheerios, or that cup has less juice. Parents should talk about which toys are heavier or lighter. Mention that a certain ball is bigger than another and ask kids to find the biggest ball. They may not understand immediately but discuss these principles whenever the opportunity arises.
Read Books With Numerical Themes
The books read to a child should include Math themed books. First counting books are plentiful and fun for children. When a child is ready for storybooks, look for books like, When We Went to the Park by Shirley Hughes (Hodder Publishing Division, 1985) or What Comes In 2’s, 3’s and 4’s by Suzanne Aker (Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing Co, 1992). By simply listening to a Math themed book a child is developing Math ideas in a subtle way.
Point Out The Numbers Encountered During the Day
No matter where children go, numbers are all around them. Children will realize how important numbers are if a parent casually mentions the numbers in the world around him. Mention the bus, house, and elevator floor numbers. Draw attention to the fact that the clock will illuminate a particular number before a favorite television show is on," We're waiting for the clock to say one-two- zero- zero, then Sesame Street will start".
Teach Kids to Measure Items
Very young children can measure toys with things around the house. “How many steps to the door?’ or “How many Lego blocks tall is your Barbie? Children also love to measure teaspoons of sugar or salt into a recipe. This will develop the skill of measuring long before they ever use a ruler.
Introduce Kids to Money
In the early years, just make children aware that money exists. There is no formal teaching necessary, a parent can allow a child to put the money in the parking meter or take the bills out of the ATM. In a world where currency is quickly being replaced by cards it is more difficult for children to be comfortable with coins and bills.
Demonstrate and Play With Patterns
Make FrootLoop necklaces or build Lego towers that have colour patterns. Green, Blue, Green, Blue. Patterns can also be demonstrated by singing or clapping. Initially parents will do the modeling and talking about patterns. After demonstrating several patterns, invite the child to try his own pattern.
Directed play, songs and books will make children comfortable with numbers and mathematical principals. With the addition of little activities and games in a child's daily routine, parents can develop math concepts in a preschooler. A foundation for future mathematical success in school can be built by incorporating simple activities into the day. For more activity ideas read Fun Math For Preschoolers.
 |
 |
