Motivating Math Mavens

Math used to be one of my favorite subjects in school outside of science.  However, I have not taken a math class since my first year of college.   My kids have used an online program at school, IXL.com, for the past year.  I have seen from their homework the various math problems they were used to as well as the practice provided through IXL.  I would not have a problem teaching them the concepts, but unfortunately, it would not be me each day.  It would be my mom and even perhaps my dad.

That being said, exploring math to incorporate into the weekly themes has been a bit harder.  You have to stretch your mind a bit to figure out how math will fit in with an “ocean” theme.  I think this particular subject might have to stand on its own each week.  So far I am trying to reinforce concepts they have already learned, such as counting and simple math for my soon to be first grader.  My daughter has received worksheets doing three digit addition thus far. 

I would like for my daughter to start to learn multiplication.  We have talked about the basis before in regards to grouping and how multiplication works.  My mother-in-law provided her with a multiplication table (12X12) from which to start.  My dad saw it was excited to talk to her about it.  Maybe it will work out okay. She will also need to learn about fractions.  I always think about cooking when it comes to fractions.  A day (or five) of making cookies or a special treat with grandma might just be in order.

As for my son, I’d like for him to learn about money.  He started today, but I think he will need a lot more time understanding how it works.  Knowing that five pennies can equal a nickel or even just learning the names of the money is something in and of itself.  I think that is going to take some time.  I would also like for him to learn how to read an analog clock.  He has a clock made from paper and fastener to move the clock hands.  Hopefully he can work with one of my parents to manipulate it to at least learn hour and 30 minute increments.  I know I found a clock online when my daughter was learning time so she could do route practice.

This subject is going to take a little more time, but math is so important to learn and understand.  You really do use it every day of your life even if you do not realize it.