Numbers Plus: Helping Your Young Child Learn About Mathematics

This parent booklet gives ideas on how to help children learn mathematics. Mathematics is all around us even when we don't know we're using it. There are many ways in which children can learn about math. Children tend to learn math best through hands-on activities. Below are five different areas of mathematics and some ideas for how to teach them to your child.

Numbers

• Count things 
• Sing counting songs and read counting books
• Find numbers(numerals) around your home and neighborhood
• Ask your child to help solve simple number problems
• Provide numerals in diverse materials and encourage your child to trace, copy and write numerals during pretend play and real events

 Geometry

• Label shapes and sizes 
• Find shapes in the environment 
• Encourage your child to climb in, out, under, over, and around things to develop a sense of space 
• Build structures with blocks, boxes, and other clean and empty containers
• Use words that describe the position (over, under, next to, between, above, behind), direction (forward, backward, up, down), and distance (near, close, far, way over there)

 Measurement

• Organize and compare household items
• Use conventional and unconventional units to measure things
• Include your child in activities that involve measuring
• Estimate everything!
• Talk about time 

 Algebra

• Look for patterns in songs, chants, and storybooks
• Create patterns using your hand and feet
• Hunt for patterns in your house and neighborhood
• Create patterns with household items
• Explore patterns in numbers

 Data Analysis

• Make collections
• Sort household items
• Make simple charts and graphs