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Core Math Worksheets

Addition worksheets, subtraction worksheets, multiplication worksheets, division worksheets, fact family worksheets, long division worksheets, negative numbers, exponents worksheets, order of operations worksheets, fraction worksheets, fractions worksheets, graphic fractions, equivalent fractions, reducing fractions, comparing fractions, adding fractions, subtracting fractions, multiplying fractions, dividing fractions, fractions as decimals, fraction decimal percent, word problems, pre-algebra word problems, money word problems, combining like terms, properties of multiplication, exponent rules, linear equations, one step equations, two step equations, factoring polynomials, quadratic equations, other worksheets, place value, percentages, rounding numbers, ordering numbers, standard, expanded, word form, mean median mode range, ratio worksheets, probability worksheets, roman numerals, factorization, gcd, lcm, prime and composite numbers, pre-algebra, geometry worksheets, blank clocks, telling analog time, analog elapsed time, greater than and less than, arithmetic sequences, geometric sequences, venn diagram, graph worksheets, measurement & conversions, inches measurement, metric measurement, metric si unit conversions, customary unit conversions, customary and metric, patterns and puzzles, number patterns, patterns with negatives, missing operations, magic square, number grid puzzles, word search puzzles, color by number, addition color by number, subtraction color by number, multiplication color by number, division color by number, color by number, holiday & seasonal, valentine's day, st. patrick's day, thanksgiving, early learning, base ten blocks, printable flash cards, number matching, number tracing, missing numbers, picture math addition, picture math subtraction, picture math multiplication, picture math division, multiplication chart, multiplication table, prime numbers chart, hundreds chart, place value chart, roman numerals chart, handwriting paper, graph paper, coordinate plane, spaceship math check-off, square root chart, fraction chart, probability chart, measurement chart, number line, comic strip template, calculators, age calculator, factoring calculator, fraction calculator, slope calculator, degrees to radians, percentage calculator, prime factorization calculator, roman numeral converter, long division calculator, multiplication calculator, math worksheets by grade, preschool math worksheets, kindergarten math worksheets, 1st grade math worksheets, 2nd grade math worksheets, 3rd grade math worksheets, 4th grade math worksheets, 5th grade math worksheets, 6th grade math worksheets, worksheet news, math worksheets.

This is the main page for the addition worksheets. Follow the links for Spaceship Math Addition worksheets, multiple digit addition worksheets, no-carrying addition worksheets and other addition topics. These addition worksheets are free for personal or classroom use.

This is the main page for the subtraction worksheets. Follow the links for Spaceship Math Subtraction worksheets, timed subtraction tests, multiple digit subtraction worksheets, simple borrowing and regrouping worksheets, and math worksheets with mixed addition and subtraction problems

This is the main page for the multiplication worksheets. Put your fingers away, because this is the first math operation where memorization of the facts is a requirement. You'll find multiplication worksheets for Dad's Eight Simple Rules for Mastering the Times Table, RocketMath Multiplication, multiple digit multiplication, squares and other multiplication worksheet topics. All of these multiplication worksheets include answer keys and are instantly printable and ready for classroom or home school use.

This is the main page for the division worksheets. This includes Spaceship Math Division worksheets, multiple digit division worksheets, square root worksheets, cube roots, mixed multiplication and division worksheets. These division worksheets are free for personal or classroom use.

Trying to memorize the multiplication facts? This page contains printable multiplication charts that are perfect as a reference. There are different variations of each multiplication chart with facts from 1-9 (products 1-81), 1-10 (products 1-100), 1-12 (products 1-144) and 1-15 (products 1-255). Each of these multiplication charts is a high resolution SVG, so the multiplication facts print beautifully!

Are you looking for a printable multiplication table that has more than just the facts? One with some extra math facts about the multipliers? Or a unique design? In color? The multiplication tables on this page are all high resolution SVG files that print beautifully on your printer and are great resources for learning the times tables in the grade school classroom or at home!

Fact family worksheets focus on sets of related math facts, not specific operations. Teach your kids addition and subtraction at the same time, and reinforce the relationships in a fact family! Two fact families are introduced at each level and allow for progressive practice, or just use the worksheets at the end for comprehensive fact family review.

Introductory long division worksheets, long division worksheets with and without remainders, long division with decimals. All of these long division worksheets includes detailed, expanded answers.

A great introduction to fractions using pie graphics. Students are asked to identify numeric forms of fractions from the graphics, or to create their own representations.

16 Equivalent Fractions Worksheets

These equivalent fractions worksheets teach 4th and 5th grade students how to find equivalent fractions, including both reducing fractions to lower forms as well as changing fractions to less reduced forms. By building familiarity with common equivalent fractions, students learn how to find and recognize the fractions they need when performing other types of fraction arithmetic where different denominators are required.

Practice worksheets for reducing fractions. Different fraction worksheets in this section deal with reducing simple fractions, improper fractions and mixed fractions.

Comparing Fractions Worksheets

Practice worksheets for comparing fractions. The fraction problems on these sheets require kids to compare like and unlike denominators, improper fractions and mixed fractions.

Worksheets for adding fractions with common denominators, with unlike denominators, as simple fractions and as mixed fractions. Complete work with steps is shown for each problem on the answer keys.

Worksheets for subtracting fractions with common denominators, with unlike denominators, as simple fractions and as mixed fractions. Full answer keys that show work!

These math worksheets provide practice for multiplying fractions. Includes problems with and without wholes, and with and without cross-cancelling. Every PDF fraction worksheet here has a detailed answer key that shows the work required to solve the problem, not just the final product!

Dividing fractions worksheets with two fraction division. Includes simple fractions, mixed fractions and improper fractions, as well as problems that make use of a cross multiply step to solve.

Worksheets for transforming fractions into decimals, including by the use of long division.

16 Fraction Decimal Percent Worksheets

These fraction decimal percent worksheets teach 4th and 5th grade students how to convert between different forms for the same fraction quantity, including both reducing fractions to lower forms as well as changing fractions to less reduced forms. These are great worksheets for applying fractions to other common types of math problems, or seeing how a fraction relates to a specific decimal or percentage.

Math Word Problems

This page has word problems spanning a range of difficulties for all the basic operations, including problems with larger values as well as unused information. Word problems are a great way to put those math facts into practice and develop a real understanding of what the operations mean in the real world!

Pre-algebra addition, subtraction, multiplication and division word problems dealing with relationships between numbers in simple equations... A great first step for easing into algebra!

Real-world addition, subtraction, multiplication and division word problems dealing with money. A great first introduction to applied math for students familiar with decimal arithmetic!

Worksheets that teach basic investing math concepts, including market capitalization, price-to-earnings ratios, dividends.

These negative number worksheets combine negative numbers with other integers (both positive and negative) using the basic math operations, multiplying multi-digit negative numbers, and long division with negative numbers.

Worksheets to practice using and calculating percentages of other numbers, including converting between fractions and percentages.

These section presents rounding worksheets for rounding whole numbers and rounding decimal numbers starting with relatively simple problems that introduce the rounding algorithm and then advance to more complex problems where students must determine the correct place value digit to check as well as the correct digit to round up or round down..

Practice ordering numbers worksheets for with multiple numbers in ascending (greatest to least) and descending (least to greatest) orders. Includes whole numbers, decimal numbers and negative numbers. Similar sets of ordering numbers worksheets are presented in both horizontal and vertical formats.

Standard, Expanded and Word Form

Practice worksheets for converting numbers between standard form (digits), expanded form (place value) and word form (spelled out or spoken representation).

These number patterns worksheets help students develop the needed skills for determining patterns and relationships between numbers.

Number patterns that cross zero and may start or end with negative values.

Mean, Median, Range

Worksheets for determining the mean, median, mode and range for sets of numbers. Problems include sets of all positive integers, all negative integers and mixed sign sets, plus calculator practice.

This page contains free printable flash cards for each math operation. Print the 'worksheet' on the front, then turn the page over and print the 'answer key' version on the back. Some sets have duplicate facts for the more difficult problems near the end so that the sets end up on a multiple of pages. Those cards are clearly marked as duplicates... use them for extra practice on the harder problems, or put them aside if you want a set with only one flash card for each math fact.

Worksheets where the answers are provided, but the operation is missing. This is a great way to learn fact families 'in reverse' or to provide reinforcement if memorization with other drills seems to have stalled.

Every hundreds chart you could imagine! If you're teaching basic counting, number sense, rounding or the basics of arithmetic, you can use a number chart like one of these to speed up building math skills.

This page has printable place value charts. In the decimal numbering system, the position (or 'place') of an individual digit in a number determines its value relative to other digits. When a number is written in standard form with groups of three place values separated by commas, each of those groups is called a period. Building number sense by understanding place values is an important early math skill, and these place value charts provide a way to break numbers down to better understand the significance of each digit. There are place value chart variations for whole numbers only, decimal numbers, and very large numbers. There are different place value chart layouts that reinforce just the place value as well as the period value.

Roman numeral worksheets including converting Roman numerals, ordering Roman numerals and completing Roman numeral patterns. Roman numerals are a perfect topic for 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students, and these worksheets provide practice both with reading and writing Roman numerals as well as basic number sense skills.

Whether you are trying to learn how to read and write Roman numerals, trying to find a fancy way to write your birth year, or if you just need a 'cheat sheet' for quick reference, each Roman numerals chart on this page will have you working with this ancient number system in no time flat. All charts print on one page with versions for 1-10, 1-100 and 1-1000 with and without rules for Roman Numerals. Trying to figure out what that weird Roman numeral after the Super Bowl is supposed to mean? Check out the new Super Bowl Roman Numerals chart!

Sudoku puzzles for kids and adults, including easy and hard difficulties, evil sudoku, Samurai Sudoku and more!

Magic square puzzles are a great introduction to logic and problem solving... Try these 3x3, 4x4 and 5x5 to level up your math skills!

This section includes grid style math logic puzzle worksheets involving addition, subtraction, multiplication and division for different grade and skill levels. There are versions of these logic puzzles with missing numbers, as well as with missing operations.

The printable prime factorization worksheets on this page require students to factor progressively larger integers into their prime factors. This is the first step for determining the greatest common divisors of two numbers, or determining the least common multiple of two numbers, but additionally prime factorization introduces the concepts of prime numbers and composite numbers.

Pre-algebra skills including solving for the missing values.

Introduces squares, cubes and exponents mixed with other basic operations. Includes practice that will build site-memory of common exponential terms

These order of operations worksheets mix basic arithmetic, including parentheses and exponents. If you are looking for order of operations worksheets that test knowledge of the PEMDAS rules, these math worksheets are a good start. You can also find order of operations worksheets with negative numbers and order of operations worksheets with comparisons at these other worksheet pages.

Basic Geometry

Simple labeling of lines, angles and triangles. Identifying shapes

Practice worksheets for telling analog clock time, including both reading time and drawing clock faces.

Worksheets comparing two analog clocks and determining how much time has elapsed between the two.

Preschool and Kindergarten

These really basic math worksheets are perfect for little ones just embarking on their mathematical journey! These worksheets contain addition and subtraction problems that can all be solved with five finger or ten finger founting.

Practice worksheets for number comparisons. These worksheets feature greater than and less than operations, comparisons and equality tests for multi digit numbers, times and more!

Printable hand writing paper templates in a variety of line heights, including 3-line practice paper in both normal and wide layouts, blank story paper, and regular lined paper for older grade students. Check out the numbered blank spelling test templates!

Free printable graph paper, grid paper and dot paper for math problems, crafts, zentangling, landscape design, architecture or just simple doodling. All graph paper styles include inch and centimeter variations. All of these PDF files are designed to print on 8.5 x 11 inch paper.

The blank coordinate planes on this page include variations with labels on either the axis or the edge of the grid, as well as versions with quadrant labels. You can find full 4 quadrant coordinate planes, as well as just blank 1 quadrant coordinate planes in layouts setup for solving multiple homework problems on a single page.

These measurement worksheets for inches (customary units) will build skills for performing ruler measurements of either a single point or the length measurement of an object. There are different measuring worksheets with problems appropriate for kindergarten, first grade, second grade or third grade math students.

Metric measurement worksheets for identifying measured positions and measuring objects in centimeters and millimeters on a ruler. These worksheets are great practice for first grade, second grade, third grade and fourth grade students and can also provide practical subtraction practice when measuring the length of objects on a ruler.

These worksheets use unity fractions to convert unit values from one measurement to another. This approach is more common in chemistry, physics or other science classes and requires students to focus on cancelling units to reach a solution with both the right value and the right units.

Customary unit conversion practice for distance (inches to feet), volume (ounces to gallons) and mass (ounces to pounds). These worksheets also employ unity fractions to convert unit values from one measurement to another. This approach is more common in chemistry, physics or other science classes and requires students to focus on cancelling units to reach a solution with both the right value and the right units.

These worksheets use unity fractions to convert values between SI (Metric) units and customary units. Topics in this section include conversion practice for inches to meters, liters to gallons and grams to pounds.

These printable worksheets use pictures and grouping to build a conceptual understanding of addition. These worksheets start out with simple addition picture problems where only basic counting skills are required to come up with addition number sentences, but later worksheets require students to produce a similar grid illustration to demonstrate their understanding of addition concepts. These are a perfect first instruction to addition for students in preschool, kindergarten or first grade.

These printable worksheets use pictures and grouping to build a conceptual understanding of subtraction. These worksheets start out with simple subtraction picture problems where only basic counting skills are required to come up with subtraction number sentences, but later worksheets require students to produce a similar grid illustration to demonstrate their understanding of subtraction concepts. These are a perfect first introduction to subtraction for students in kindergarten or first grade.

These printable worksheets use pictures and grouping to build a conceptual understanding of multiplication. These worksheets start out with simple multiplication picture problems where only basic counting skills are required to come up with subtraction number sentences, but later worksheets require students to produce a similar grid illustration to demonstrate their understanding of multiplication concepts. These are a perfect first introduction to multiplication for students in second grade, third grade or fourth grade.

These printable worksheets use pictures and grouping to build a conceptual understanding of division and they are the perfect first introduction to this often confusing operation. These worksheets start out with simple division picture problems where only basic counting skills are required to come up with subtraction number sentences, but later worksheets require students to produce a similar grid illustration to demonstrate their understanding of division concepts, including remainders. These are a perfect first introduction to division for students in third grade or fourth grade.

These printable money worksheets feature realistic coins and bills in problems for identifying coins, making change, counting coins, comparing amounts of money. They build foundational recognition and counting skills in Kindergarten and first grade to prepare for full money practice necessary to pass second grade.

Spaceship check-off pages (complete with the Spaceship ship!) for tracking progress on the Spaceship Math or Rocket Math worksheets for each of the four basic operations.

These addition coloring worksheets require students to solve simple math facts to find the right color to shade in to reveal a picture of their own creation. You'll find a growing set of holiday and seasonal themed pages that I'll be adding to over time... Please check back often for updates, or if you have a suggestion send me a note at the contact link below!

These subtraction coloring worksheets require students to solve simple math facts to find the right color to shade in to reveal a picture of their own creation. You'll find a growing set of holiday and seasonal themed pages that I'll be adding to over time... Please check back often for updates, or if you have a suggestion send me a note at the contact link below!

Looking for worksheets to make learning math on Valentine's Day a bit more fun? This page has a collection of color by number multiplication worksheets appropriate for third grade, fourth grade or fifth grade students.

Looking for worksheets to make learning math on Valentine's Day a bit more fun? This page has a collection of color by number division worksheets appropriate for third grade, fourth grade or fifth grade students.

These coloring worksheets feature simple color by number instructions for young students who are either just learning their numbers or as a reward activity for older kids. You'll find a growing set of holiday and seasonal themes that I'll be adding to over time... Please check back often for updates, or if you have a suggestion send me a note at the contact link below!

Valentine's Day

Looking for worksheets to make learning math on Valentine's Day a bit more fun? This page has a collection of color by number worksheets appropriate for kindergarten through fourth grade, covering addition, subtraction, multiplication and division operations. There are also a collection of simple math exercises with fun Valentine's Day themes.

Looking for worksheets to make learning math on Earth Day a bit more fun? This page has a collection of color by number worksheets appropriate for kindergarten through fourth grade, covering addition, subtraction, multiplication and division operations. There are also a collection of simple math exercises with fun Earth Day themes.

St. Patrick's Day

You can't rely solely on the luck of the Irish when it comes to math, but these St. Patrick's Day do make it a bit more fun! This page has a collection of color by number worksheets appropriate for kindergarten through fourth grade, covering addition, subtraction, multiplication and division operations. There are also a collection of simple math exercises with fun St. Patrick's Day shamrock themes.

What better time of year to start growing some new math skills than Spring! This page has a collection of color by number worksheets appropriate for kindergarten through fourth grade, covering addition, subtraction, multiplication and division operations. There is also a collection of simple spring math worksheets with fun spring flower themes, along with a multiplication chart, hundreds chart, graph paper and coordinate plane!

This collection of Thanksgiving-themed math worksheets is both educational and fun. It includes a variety of exercises ranging from simple number recognition to basic operations, along with engaging color-by-number style worksheets. Ideal for students to improve their math skills while celebrating the spirit of Thanksgiving!

This collection of Christmas-themed math worksheets are designed to reinforce specific math skills and concepts, from simple number recognition to basic operations, along with engaging color-by-number style worksheets, puzzles, and more! Christmas Color By Number Santa Claus

Whether you're looking for a list of perfect square roots, or a complete table of square roots from 1 to 100, a square root chart from this page will have your radicals covered! There are both color and black and white versions of the charts in printable PDF form.

This unique rendering of equivalent fractions combines the value of the fractions positionally on the number line to create an elegant symmetry. It not only highlights fractions in their lowest, most reduced form but provides a convenient decimal equivalent for the most commonly used fractions. This really is one of the nicest reference charts I've created in the 10 years I've been building math resources!

Use these math word search puzzles to introduce vocabulary and terms to grade school students as they are introduced to new math concepts! These word search puzzles include sets for various Common Core aligned grade levels, along with specific topics for geometry, algebra and more!

Probability anchor chart for word problem reference! This illustrated chart describes scenarios with coins, dice and playing cards. It includes odds for most likely and least likely outcomes.

This measurement chart is a good reference aid for word problems involving converting volume, length or temperature units from one system to the other. Values are shown on one scale in both customary and metric systems. Great for kitchen measurement and cooking too!

This collection of algebra worksheets focuses on combining like terms. Expertly crafted, they provide ample practice to hone algebraic skills. Each PDF worksheet includes an answer key, facilitating easy self-assessment and effective learning. Perfect for students aiming to master the fundamental concept of combining like terms in algebra. Combining Like Terms 6 Terms Addition Subtraction Multiplication V1

The one step equations worksheets on this page include problems with integers and fractions for a variety of math operations. These basic algebra worksheets are appropriate practice for 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade students. Full answer keys are included on the second page of each PDF file. One Step Equations Integers Addition And Subtraction V1

The two step equations worksheets on this page include problems with integers, decimals and fractions for a variety of math operations. These beginning algebra worksheets are appropriate practice for 6th grade, 7th grade and 8th grade students. Full answer keys are included on the second page of each PDF file. Two Step Equations Fractions Multiplication And Division V3

Linear equations worksheets including calculating slope from two points, calculating y-intercepts, graphing equations in slope intercept form, graphing equations in point slope form, graphing systems of equations, graphing linear equations, graphing linear inequalities and more!

A number line can be a powerful tool for learning about negative numbers, ratios or just introductory addition and subtraction operations. The number line PDFs on this page include various ranges (10, 12, 15, 20, 15 and 100) in both starting from zero as well as negative ranges. A complete set of fraction number lines marked with common denominators is included in -5 to 5 ranges. There are also application specific number lines for elapsed time, temperature and money, as well as blank number lines for regular ranges and fractions.

Missing Numbers Worksheets

These missing numbers worksheets are appropriate for preschool and kindergarten age students for counting practice. Each worksheet shows a sequence of numbers in ascending or descending order and the student fills in missing values to complete the series.

Arithmetic Sequences Worksheets

Arithmetic sequences worksheets including practice finding the common difference for a sequence of numbers, or finding arbitrary nth terms in an arithmetic sequence given its formula definition.

Geometric Sequences Worksheets

Geometric sequences worksheets including practice finding the nth term and common ratio for a sequence of numbers, or finding arbitrary nth terms in an progressions given its formula definition.

Ratio Worksheets and Word Problems

Probability worksheets including simple coin tosses, spinners and dice throws. These worksheets also include vocabulary for solving probability problems as percentages, decimals or fraction values representing that measurement of possible outcomes for simple problems.

Ratio worksheets including relating visual quantities, ratio word problems, rate and ratio problems and finding equivalent ratios. These PDF worksheets are designed for 3rd through 6th grade students and include full answer keys.

Venn Diagram Templates and Worksheets

Check out this page for Venn diagram worksheets, blank Venn diagram templates and practice for Venn diagram concepts. Venn diagrams are useful for learning set concepts such as intersection, exclusion and complements. Venn Diagram Template Colored 3 Sets With Lines

Creating and Interpretting Graphs

Graph worksheets for practice visually representing data and understanding relationships between variables. These worksheets include reading graphs, creating graphs, and interpreting different types of graphs. Tally Bar Graph V3

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5 Resources for Parents Who Are Stumped by Math Homework

A math teacher's go-to list of websites to help you — and your child — decipher tricky math concepts..

With a new school year underway, there are many exciting events ahead for you and your child. And then, there are some events you might not be looking forward to — like deciphering your child's math homework! As new concepts and strategies are being taught, it may feel like you have no idea how to help your child. While I love math and teaching it, math homework can still be a tricky part of my own family’s nightly routine.

These five websites below are my go-to for resources, worksheets, and games. 

1.  Learn Zillion :   This video-based website teaches math concepts in short, student-centered lessons. You can search a concept and watch different videos that will teach you and your child how to understand math ideas and strategies. The videos are very child friendly! Recommended for 2 nd grade and up.

2.  K-5 Math Teaching Resources :   I love this website! It's full of games and activities for each math standard that allow you and your child to better understand different topics being taught in the classroom. There are different categories to choose from: number sense, geometry, and measurement and data. Click on the activity or game that will help practice different mathematical concepts. Recommended for Kindergarten through 5 th grade.

3.  Khan Academy :   Khan Academy focuses on interactive videos and practice exercises that support your child’s learning at her own pace. The activities are simple enough for your child to do on her own but also challenging enough to push her to learn more. Recommended for Kindergarten and up.

4.  NCTM Illuminations : This site is an incredible resource for teachers, parents, and students. There are lessons, interactive games, and brainteasers that are all helpful with homework and extra practice at home. Recommended for PreK and up.

5.  K 5 Learning : K 5 Learning is a wonderful parent-support for math help at home. It offers online support and numerous printable worksheets to support you and your child’s learning at home. There are even parent progress reports if you chose to assess your child’s progress. Recommended for Kindergarten through 5 th grade.

Keep these resources on hand when math homework starts to get tricky. They can be a great support to both you and your child!

MORE: Math Printables & Worksheets for All Ages

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Homework Help

Being involved with your child’s education is important. As a father, helping and encouraging children with their homework shows that you care about their academic success and can help build a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem. So how do you get involved in helping with homework? How much time do you spend with your child on their homework?

Homework can look different depending on the age and development of each child. For very young children, homework may involve simply reading a book together. As children get older, homework assignments will become more challenging.  Here are some helpful resources for learning more about helping with homework.

Tips & Best Practices

• Parents who provide help with homework has been shown to be a determining factor in a child's educational success.  This article provides 10 ways to help kids with homework. Additionally, the following resources listed aim at helping children with various homework needs depending on their age. 
• Prepare very young children for homework by reading to them.  For very young children not yet in school, research has shown that children who are read to grow up to enjoy reading and tend to do better in school and have more opportunities as adults! This tip sheet provides strategies for dads to read to children to help them become lifelong learners.
• Help elementary and middle school children with homework.  This resource from the U.S. Department of Education helps answer questions often asked about homework by children in elementary and middle school. The resource also includes practical ideas for helping children to complete homework assignments successfully.
• Help children with homework in math and science.   National Parent Teacher Association (PTA), in partnership with the National Education Association, offers newly updated Family Guides. These guides provide parents and caretakers with valuable tips for helping their child succeed in math, science, and reading skills.
• Help children who are reluctant to doing homework.   Parents can create a nightly homework ritual to help children who will not do their homework. This article provides strategies and tips for turning homework time into a ritual that is routine for children.

Benjamin Franklin famously stated that the only two certainties in life are “death and taxes.”

Let us add “homework” to Franklin’s list.

Nearly everybody – child or adult, man or woman – has dealt with the challenges and responsibilities of homework during their lives. Schoolwork does not stop at the final bell, and the work completed at home often reinforces skills and drives achievement. Research shows that time spent on homework, especially in grades 7-12, can have a tremendous impact on student outcomes.

Why is homework important?

Research shows that the average student who did homework scored higher on tests than the students not doing homework. But beyond the academic benefits, homework provides an opportunity for parents to interact    with and understand the content their children are learning so they can provide another means of academic support for students.

How much time should my child spend on homework?

The National Education Association recommends that elementary school students receive 10-20 minutes of homework per night in first grade. That figure should grow by 10 minutes per year.

What if I do not know the answer?

You’re not alone! According to a 2013 Education Week article , about half of parents struggle with helping their children with homework, and many of those parents struggle because they themselves don't understand the subject material. It’s okay if you do not know the answer! Here are some tips to help your children with their homework, if you're struggling with the assignment yourself.

Should children do homework as soon as they get home?

There are three time periods during which kids can do their homework: immediately after school, before dinner, or after dinner. Let your child help choose the time. Some kids really need to let off steam when they get home, while others will be too tired if they wait. Figure out a time that works for your child and your family, and then stick with it.

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7 ways to help your kids with math homework

As schools across the country remain closed as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are republishing this article as a resource for parents and caregivers taking on homeschooling responsibilities. In this post, Joan Ferrini-Mundy, NSF’s former chief operating officer and current president of the University of Maine, joins colleagues in our Education and Human Resources Directorate to share tips on taking an educator’s approach to math at home.

If you’ve ever had to help your child with math homework, you really appreciate their teachers, who do it every day. “Math anxiety” isn’t something only kids experience. 

Maybe you haven’t seen an algebra formula in years, and weren’t that comfortable with them when you were a student. Maybe you’re a skilled mathematician, but don’t know how to explain what you’re doing to a child. Whatever the case, math homework can leave parents feeling every bit as frustrated as their children. Homework doesn’t have to lead to unpleasantness, though. 

What I’ve learned through my own experience — as a teacher, a researcher, from helping my own children and now watching my daughter work as an elementary school mathematics teacher — is that communication is (excuse the pun) the common denominator when it comes to making math homework a positive experience. 

The National Science Foundation (NSF), where I work, is dedicated to research. We support scientists across the country who study learning and education systems. But we’re also teachers at heart. On lunch breaks in the past, a group of us have gathered to help our NSF peers with their own questions about how to help their kids learn math. 

Here are a few tips from what we’ve learned: 

Try as hard as you can to understand what your child is saying. When your child is working out a math problem, ask her to think out loud, to say what she’s doing and why. In some cases, your child might be able to answer her own questions. Don’t just come in with an explanation of how things should be done. 

We’ve learned a lot about teaching. NSF-supported researchers and other scientists are producing findings that change the way we understand learning and how we teach. Math instruction today might look very different from when you were in school. Keep an open mind. If you’re dismissive of something, there’s a chance your child will be, too. 

Assume there is some logical thinking your child is employing. Even if he’s producing incorrect answers, your child is employing some kind of thought process, and understanding it is the key to providing help. Let’s say your child is adding 1/3 and 1/4 and getting 2/7. If his explanation is that he was adding the numerators and denominators, you’ve just learned that he might not fully understand what a fraction is. And that gives you a starting point for helping. 

Homework is about more than producing the correct answers. It’s about learning processes and skills. Even if you can come up with the right answer to a problem with which your child is struggling, there’s a lot you still need to explain — namely, how you arrived at that point. 

Become a teacher’s ally. Talk to your child’s teachers. Find out how they are teaching certain ideas and concepts. At times, parents unhappy about their children’s struggles to learn can approach teachers from a place of frustration. View your child’s teachers as your partners and collaborators. 

Find additional help. Worried you won’t be able to understand the math your child is trying to learn? Take a careful look at her textbook or online learning materials. See if the publisher provides any resources. Look for other publicly available teaching aids, especially those that have had NSF support. Do you have friends or coworkers with children? Start a lunch group to talk through your homework challenges. 

Remember, every child is different and learns differently. Just because your oldest child learned his multiplication facts one way doesn’t mean his younger sister will do the same. Which brings us back to the first tip: Listen to each child and do your best to understand. 

COVID-19 Resources:  Coronavirus.gov ;  Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) ;  What the U.S. Government is Doing

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How to help kids with tricky math homework

By Gretchen Vierstra, MA

Expert reviewed by Bob Cunningham, EdM

Quick tips for helping kids with math homework

Quick tip 1, acknowledge feelings and effort..

Not understanding what to do can be stressful. Take a moment to acknowledge that, and praise the effort. For example, “I’m proud that you know what the homework is and brought home the right materials.”

Quick tip 2

Find an example math problem..

Find a similar math problem that’s been solved. This could be a problem from class or a sample problem from a textbook that includes the answer. You can also look for examples online by searching for terms from the assignment. 

Quick tip 3

Help kids jog their memory..

Look at the example problem and its solution together. Then ask, “How did the teacher say to do the problem?” Having a completed example in front of them can help kids remember directions from class. 

Quick tip 4

Take notes on the process..

Work through the first problem together and make notes on each step. This reminds kids that math is a process. They can use these notes to show teachers their efforts and get feedback on how they solved the problem.

Quick tip 5

Say it’s ok..

Doing tricky math takes practice. Say that it’s OK to not know the answers every time. And if you’ve ever struggled with math, be open about that. It helps kids know they’re not the only ones who struggle. 

Math homework can be tricky for lots of kids. And sometimes the adults helping kids aren’t sure how to help — or how to do the math problem themselves.

When kids have trouble with math homework, the most important thing is to not dwell on it for too long. A good rule is to not spend more than 10 to 20 minutes working through math homework that kids are unsure of. Spending more time than this can be frustrating for everyone — without providing many benefits.

Here are other things to avoid when kids ask for help with math homework: 

Try not to contact the teacher right away. Kids might give up easily if they’re not sure what to do. But it’s important for them to think of ways to approach the problem. That way they can share their process with the teacher for feedback.  

Don't write a note that just says they didn’t understand it. Instead, be specific about what kids are having trouble with, like adding fractions. This information helps you and the teacher find the “missing piece.”

Having trouble with math homework doesn’t always mean kids have trouble with math in general. Keeping track of what you see can help you figure out what’s going on and the best way to help. 

Dive deeper

What causes trouble with math homework.

Here are some of the reasons why kids might need help with their math homework: 

Trouble with math: When kids need help with math homework, it may be a sign that they’re having trouble with math in general. Learn more about math challenges in kids .

Trouble with reading: To solve some math problems — especially word problems — kids have to read well. Learn more about reading challenges , and what can help.  

Trouble with homework: Sometimes kids may be having trouble with homework in general, not just the math homework. They may even feel anxious about it. Learn about homework anxiety .

Parents and caregivers: It’s common for families to have trouble helping kids with homework, including math homework. Get answers to common questions about homework and ways you can help your child. Use these conversation starters to reach out to your child’s teacher for more support with math homework.   

Educators: Learn more about using evidence-based math practices to teach your students. 

Explore related topics

Best ways to help with math homework

by: Miriam Myers | Updated: June 13, 2023

Print article

The math your child brings home may look different from the math you remember doing as a child. How can you help if you don’t understand it? And if you do understand it, how can you guide him without just giving him the answer?

Here are some helpful tips to guide your child:

• Go over the directions with her and find out what she does and doesn’t understand about the assignment.
• Encourage him to find another math student he can call for help if he’s unclear about the assignment or wants to review a class lesson.
• Ask her where she thinks she should begin.
• Ask him if he can find information in his notes to solve the problem.
• Ask if there is a similar problem in her textbook or one she did in class.
• Suggest that he draw or make a model to explain his thinking.
• Ask more guiding questions as she progresses, such as “What should you do next?” “Is this answer reasonable?” “Did you answer the question?” “Can you solve it another way?”
• If he struggles to understand the subject matter or has trouble keeping up with the amount of homework assigned, ask his teacher for recommendations.
• Suggest looking for homework help online . Math.com has math help for parents and students.
• Remember to resist the temptation to do the homework for her.
• The greatest impact on a child’s attitude about math is the parent’s attitude about math. Show an interest in math and point out to your child the many ways you use math in your everyday life. Help your child understand that every parent is a mathematician.

Next: How is your child’s school teaching math?

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How To Help Kids With Their Math Homework When You Suck at Numbers

It's simple: Don't solve the problems for them, help them find their mistakes.

Math has a pretty bad reputation. When I tell people that I am a math teacher, the person’s face almost immediately changes. Either they struggled with the subject in school or have experienced some form of “math trauma” in a past life. As a result, many parents struggle with helping their child learn math, especially with the recent changes to how the subject is taught in schools. Here is my advice for those parents.

The following story was submitted by a Fatherly reader. Opinions expressed in the story do not reflect the opinions of Fatherly as a publication. The fact that we’re printing the story does, however, reflect a belief that it is an interesting and worthwhile read.

Get into the proper mindset

Math skills can be particularly tough for students because of the role mistakes play in the learning process. Children typically make more mistakes in math than any other subject, but that’s not a bad thing! Brain research has proven that making mistakes helps the brain grow, and learning from those mistakes can be extremely positive for young people.

With that in mind, parents should play the role of cheerlea tryder and coach when their kids make mistakes. A child’s perception of their own abilities, or their mindset, has a huge effect on their performance in school. We need to boost our children’s self-efficacy by letting them know that it is okay to fail and again. Math provides ample opportunity to reinforce those positive messages about overcoming obstacles.

Understand that there are no “Math People”

Despite popular belief, people who are talented in math are not born that way. We all have the same ability to learn. What separates them and other successful people, according to studies, is not quitting when faced with obstacles; that’s a defining characteristic of high achievement.

When school-aged children interact with peers and adults, they are like social sponges. During this developmental stage, the messages that we send to our children about school and learning are extremely important. Telling your child “I was never a math person” gives them the message that it is okay to give up on something when it becomes difficult. If you don’t understand ⏤ or can’t immediately help your child with their math homework ⏤ at least show excitement in having the opportunity to learn alongside them while you work as a team to overcome a challenge together.

Don’t solve the problems for them, help them find their mistakes

Some parents (and teachers) have the tendency to help children a little too much with their school work, especially with math. Don’t be one of them. Make yourself available to your child while they do their homework, but instead of helping them solve a particular problem, help them find their own mistakes. Essentially, you want to help them help themselves by providing different strategies on how to approach problems rather than doing the problem for them. As a parent, you shouldn’t be expected to know the ins and outs of all K-12 curriculum, but you can play a role in teaching your child how to learn.

Remember that your way isn’t the only way

Research has proven time and again that everyone learns differently. There is no average way of learning, and there is no average or normal learner. And while you may have learned how to complete a math problem in a specific way as a student, a lot has changed in math education in recent years. Just because the new way of teaching math is different, doesn’t mean it is wrong.

It’s always nice to provide learners with multiple strategies for solving problems. Don’t shy away from sharing the way you learned math when growing up, but celebrate other problem-solving formulas as well. Parents and teachers aren’t so much helping students learn math as they are helping the child’s brain become more agile and flexible when faced with challenges. Stop thinking of math as a memorization subject, and start thinking of it as a means for us to make sense of the complex world around us.

Raymond Steinmetz is a K-8 Math Instructional Coach and father of two living in Warren, Rhode Island. He writes about the integration of technology and teaching at blendedlearningmath.com , is a guest blogger at Education Post , and contributes a regular column to eschoolnews.com .

This article was originally published on Oct. 9, 2018

The 14 Most Effective Ways to Help Your Kids with Math

Written by Ashley Crowe

• Parent Resources

• How to help kids with math at home
• Making math homework challenging and fun
• Signs of math struggle
• How Prodigy can help kids with math

Math can be a daunting subject. Not only does it cover a huge range of skills, but it’s also one of the few subjects where a strong understanding of the fundamentals is essential for future learning.

Math is taught differently now than when many parents were in school. There’s more focus on the basics, which is great (no, really, it is). But that can feel incredibly frustrating when you’re trying to help your child understand their math homework.

No matter your history with math, you can still help your child master mathematical concepts at home. And you may even have some lightbulb moments you missed in middle school. 

Whether your child is struggling with math or wants to improve their skills, It’s time to ditch the math stress and tackle this subject together! Keep reading for our 14 best tips to help kids with math . 

How to help kids with math at home (even if you hate math)

If you have a less than stellar math history, it’s okay! You can still help your child learn the math they need to succeed. Here’s how. 

1. Maintain a positive attitude

A lot of kids (and adults) feel anxiety when presented with a math problem. But if your child is struggling with a concept, that doesn’t mean they’re bad at math. You’re not bad at math either!

Math is a skill that takes practice , just like any other. You’ll learn it, even if it’s confusing right now. This just means you don’t understand it yet.

Encourage this attitude with your child to help them build their math confidence. They can grow into math understanding, but it takes time. Use a growth mindset approach and you’ll both be amazed at what you can learn.

2. Ask math questions that interest your child

Let’s face it — some math can be boring. If your kid doesn’t care much about trains, why should they care about how fast they’re going or where they’ll meet? Instead of pushing them to answer these standard questions, ask them about what they’re actually interested in . 

Math is everywhere. You’ll find mathematical relationships throughout nature. Your child can discover angles and physics while jumping toy monster trucks. Or they can explore measurements while baking or doing crafts . 

Find numbers in what they already love and watch their interest in math grow!

3. Encourage communication

Your kid can talk your ear off about their favorite Roblox game, but when it comes to school questions, they shut down. That’s normal, but it can also make it difficult to keep up with their studies. 

When possible, try to open up some judgement-free conversations about math . Ask how it’s going and if they feel good about their new lessons. Don’t jump in and try to solve their problems right away. And be careful about remarks like, “oh, that’s easy”. If they talk, just listen.

If your child is reluctant to share, check in with their teacher. Ask about the topics they’re studying and how you can help. Then, use these insights to get the conversation going at home.

4. Be patient and take it slow

Math builds on itself, but that means it can be tricky to keep up if your child is struggling with a new concept. When this happens, slow down and back up. Don’t keep pushing new ideas until they understand the old ones. 

This same advice works for you, too. Be patient with yourself — it’s been a while since you’ve learned 4th grade math, and the work may look a lot different now. But with some time and perseverance, you can help your child succeed.

5. Practice and refine math vocabulary

Math vocabulary is all around us, but that doesn’t mean we’re very comfortable with it. Try using math vocabulary in everyday language and it will slowly start feeling a lot less intimidating. Bring up percentages when you're shopping a sale, or talk about parts of a whole while cooking.

Of course, there are plenty of math words we don’t see everyday. Do you remember exponents, tangents, or the commutative property? If not, that’s totally okay! All you need is a refresher and some practice. 

For example, when your child is studying areas, take some time to make sure you understand what you’re actually discovering. Understanding the bigger concept (calculating the amount of surface space vs just plugging in length and width) is what will bring those light bulb moments. 

6. Show math in everyday life

We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating — math is everywhere. It’s probably not trigonometry  or pre-calculus, but you’re doing math all the time. Pay attention and you’ll catch these math moments. When you do, share them with your child.

When kids are young, just counting or sorting is a great start. As they get older, look for math lessons while baking, shopping, playing games, or talking about money. Budgeting is a major life skill that uses so much math. Find these practical math moments and help your child see the value in a math education. 

7. Get your child to teach you math

Math looks a little different now. If your kid’s homework is confusing for you, ask them to explain their process . 

This is a great connecting moment to share with your child. And it can set you up to be a better helper if they run into frustration in later lessons.

8. Talk about math around the house 

Seriously, math is everywhere. It’s true! And that means you’re not bad at math — you do it every day! Find places to use math around your house to help your child’s math abilities come to life.

Count the slices of pizza the next time you order out, then determine the percentage of pizza everyone has eaten. Get your little ones to help you sort socks. Talk about the probability of rolling an even number during your family night board game session. Look around and you’ll find tons of opportunities!

9. Use online math resources 

If you have access to the internet, there’s always somewhere you can get all of your math questions answered. 

There are many free learning resources, like those on the Prodigy blog . Give them a read and then explore math together with your child. There are always opportunities to learn something new online, especially when it comes to math!

10. Try game-based learning

If you find your child getting frustrated, ditch the textbooks and worksheets and try something different. 

Game-based learning is all the rage, and for good reason. Kids are naturally drawn to games , whether they’re cooperative board games or video games played on their tablets. Why? Because games are fun and exciting!

Game-based learning can take the stress out of math instruction. Kids can practice their math with just the right mix of the familiar and the challenging. 

Prodigy Math , for example, is a game-based learning platform where players explore fantasy worlds, build characters and battle friends — all while answering curriculum-aligned math questions !

The adaptive algorithm always adjusts to math your child’s grade and skill level, so they can grow their math confidence while you take a homework break. And with your own parent account, you can support their learning and keep track of what they’re working on. 

11. Join education-based parent groups 

Looking for new and effective ways to help your child with their studies? Join some parent-led groups focused on education (try the Prodigy Parent Community on Facebook!). Online or local in-person groups are great for finding a variety of tips and tricks to help you help your child.

Homeschooling groups are a great place to start. Or ask other parents from your child’s class how they’re coping with the newest lesson. You can even use Instagram to find parent influencers sharing their best ideas for helping your child learn. Parents understand the struggle, and they’re here to help!

12. Keep the workspace neat and tidy

Where does your child do most of their homework? 

If they’re working at the kitchen table, help them stay focused by removing distractions from the area. If they have their own desks, remind them to neaten it up every now and again. Math requires focus, and a cluttered space can lead to a distracted mind.

13. Provide homework help

It’s rare that a child loves doing homework. It’s already been a long day, and it’s understandable if they just want to get back to the things they love. If your child is really struggling with homework, offer to help!

It’s frustrating to look at the same problem over and over and never see the solution. That’s not helping them learn — it’s just breaking their confidence. Instead, step in with a fresh set of eyes and tackle it together. Talk through the problem and give a new perspective. It may be just what they need for their next “a-ha” moment.

14. Consider getting a math tutor

As your child moves into high school math courses, you may reach the end of your math comfort levels. In this case, look at your child’s math tutoring options.  

Another student in class may do the trick. But if that’s not the right fit, find an experienced educator, whether you’re looking for in-person or online tutoring sessions . This may be just the thing your child needs to boost their academic confidence.

If your child barely makes it through their nightly math problems, look for ways to add a little fun to their practice. 

Is there a way to relate their latest math lesson to one of their favorite things? For elementary students, think of beloved TV show characters or toys. Early math (like addition and subtraction) is easy to take off the page with their favorite toy collection. Create a set of rocks or stuffed animals. Then add, take away and sort.

Even high school math can be better understood using fun learning moments. Angles can be explored while playing a game of pool. Or throw a Pi day extravaganza, complete with delicious treats. Get creative, and be sure to celebrate their math wins along the way!

Look for signs of math struggle

It’s normal for your child to run into some difficulty in their math classes. Math is a complicated subject, and it can get very abstract at times. Encourage them to keep trying and use our tips above to help them along their learning journey.

But sometimes the struggle can build to a point where they may need additional help. Talk with your child’s teacher if you notice any of these signs of school struggle:

• Falling grades
• Loss of appetite
• Lack of communication
• Change in emotional state
• Lack of enthusiasm about school

Your child may not communicate the stress they feel, but try talking with them. They may have just fallen behind and have lost some of their confidence with math. Or it may be more than just math class affecting their mood. Open up communication to figure out the cause of their struggles, then brainstorm a solution plan together with their teacher.

Over the last couple of years, many have felt the pressure of trying to be both parent and teacher. If you find both you and your kids struggling with their math lessons, step back and try Prodigy Math.

This engaging learning platform can help you keep math learning fun and your child’s confidence high! 

To them, it’s a fun video game they can enjoy during screen time. But while they’re enjoying the exciting world of Prodigy, they can practice math while you monitor their progress from the parent dashboard. 

Prodigy meets your child where they are and keeps them on track with grade standards. No more butting heads or stressful kitchen table math lessons. 

Give Prodigy Math a try today and take the stress out of your evenings!

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Help your child build essential math skills through an engaging fantasy video game!

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Helping Your Child With Homework

Growing up, I struggled with math. Bringing math homework home became a dreaded task. My dad faithfully and dutifully helped me with my math assignments….. but , because it wasn't my strongest subject, and he excelled at it, our homework sessions often ended with both of us frustrated with the content and with each other.

Now, with school-age children of my own, helping with homework has become a daily ritual in my own home. While doing my best to help my child with his assignments, there has been a time (or two!) where we both lost it.  On those days, I wonder if I will survive the third grade!

While homework teaches important study skills including time management and lifelong skills of independence and responsibility, it can also impact family life and put a stress on child-parent relationships. As homework has both positive and negative effects on a child's attitude toward school, how a parent approaches the task of helping with homework is important.

Connecting with Kids offers timeless guidance to parents on providing helpful assistance with homework. Past research at the University of Illinois found that how parents help children can determine whether homework helps or hurts children's learning and motivation in school. Suggestions on HOW to help with homework include:

Let children take the lead in their learning and homework. Parents should aim to support the child's independence and self-reliance by being less controlling. Research has shown that when parents are controlling, children who struggle with schoolwork actually begin to do more poorly in school. Additionally, the child's sense of competence and confidence is undermined. Avoid controlling learning by letting the child complete the assigned work on their own and in their own way. Try not to "take over" and tell the child what to do or how to do it and be sure to avoid punishment when it comes to homework completion.

Stay positive while helping with assignments. Even though difficult assignments can bring about frustration, research has shown that when parents manage to stay positive, children are more likely to be persistent and more motivated in school. By putting the frustration aside and focusing on what is enjoyable about the work can help build motivation for school. Feelings of frustration can also be reduced by concentrating on the positives of working together.

Additional ways that parents can help children develop good study habits:

• Take an active interest in your child's homework by finding out what assignments are, talking about the assignments, and looking over completed work.
• Set aside a regular homework time that works for your child and your family. Help your children manage their time and get organized so that homework isn't done just before bed or at the last minute.
• Reduce distractions by turning off the TV, computer, tablets, and phones. This could be a "quiet time" for others in your household and a time when adults can set an example by reading or working on "quiet time activities" like balancing the checkbook or paying bills.
• Find out about teachers' homework policy and talk with the teacher if you are concerned or if you want to give them feedback.
• Provide support and encouragement to your child, especially when they are frustrated.

Homework time doesn't have to mean tears and arguments. Assisting your child with homework can add many positives to your relationship as well as assist your child in developing a life-long love of learning. With patience, loving guidance, and good communication, you and your child will survive and make the grade!

Source: "Connecting with Kids." RSS . University of Illinois Extension, Fall 2006. Web. 26 Oct. 2016.

Additional Resources:

US Department of Education

National Education Association

Helping Your Child Succeed in School

Kidshealth.org

Helping Your Grade-schooler with Homework

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Helping Your Child With Arithmetic And Math

Children in trouble with arithmetic cannot seem to remember math problems even though they review them over and over again. They may seem to remember facts when reviewed on flash cards, but when presented with arithmetic problems, they must revert to finger counting or other aids to assist them.

Here are some suggestions other parents have successfully used to help their children:

Make sure your child can correctly write numerals. Even when children can count sequentially, they may have difficulties evidenced by reversing of numerals. Taking their hand in yours and tracing large numerals helps very much. Use a large, flat surface. Let your child get the “feet” of the shape. Try doing it with your child’s eyes closed. Say the numeral as you trace it with him.

If numeral reversals continue, help your child with the understanding Of “left” and “right” on his own body. Play games like “Loobie-Loo” that require moving one side of the body or the other. The awareness of left and right also affects letter reversals as well.

Before and after games, with numbers, are helpful for math understanding. First, know how far your child can sequentially count. Then ask, “What number comes after … ?” and “What number comes just before. . . ?” This skill is critical for understanding both addition and subtraction.

Use numbers in a practical way around the house. “Susie, bring three forks to the table please;” or “Billy, will you give your dad five nails?” This gives children the opportunity to count in a realistic setting and to see, over and over again, that numerals in a problem at school represent real quantities. Use this activity in as many ways as you can.

Board games, which involve tossing of dice or spinning that result in a number of moves across a board, are excellent ways to develop sequential math understanding. These games are particularly helpful if there are backward moves as “penalties” in the game. You can even let your child make his own game by using a large sheet of construction paper. Dominoes are a good math activity because, besides being a game, the matching of numbers (in the simple form of the game) is required. Children see the dots, can orally name them, and then can make the correct match.

Keeping score on games played at home. There are any number of activities that children can do at home winch require tallying. Mom and Dad might play a game, and the child can record points by using the style of clustering four straight (upright) lines with the fifth running diagonally. Then, he can figure the totals by counting by fives.

Give your child loads of opportunities to estimate space. This can be a family game if the conditions for involving other children are satisfactory. “How long do you suppose that table is?” Then it can be measured with a ruler or yardstick. The exact number of inches or feet is not critical. The question can be phrased so that the number of lengths is the critical factor. For example, “How many times would this ruler go across that table? You guess and I’ll guess. Then we’ll measure it. ” You can practice estimating the distance across a room or up a wall, for example, in handprints, footsteps, paces, etc.

Measuring wall. Every home should have one wall that is used for keeping track of growth. Measure your child frequently and date each entry directly on the wall. Let him see how much he has grown as you measure him every month or every three months.

The same thing can be done with plants. There are many bulb plants that grow quickly in a pot or jar. Put a ruler beside the container and let your child record the amount of growth each day. He can, keep a chart, with your help, to determine the daily growth.

Teaching children to tell time would be far simpler if training clocks had only an hour hand. If you happen to have a clock that Dad can take apart, remove the minute hand. Use a clock face with Arabic numerals. By using this dock, initially, and having it designated as “Johnny’s clock,” your child can see that it is “almost eleven,” or “halfway between nine and ten; or, -a little after seven.” When your child begins to understand words like “almost,” “after,” “in between,” and how to use them, he will be ready to move to the two-hand clock.

Counting backwards is a game that children like because it ends with “Blast-off!” The skill of backwards counting is one that eventually develops the ability to understand subtracting by ones. It is also a visualization skill. Try starting from just “8” or “16” as practice. Count aloud with your child.

Counting and clustering real objects. Use beads or paper clips or buttons or poker chips-anything your child can grasp and that is not too law or too tiny. Let him arrange them into patterns or designs. Try clustering them into groups of two or three. Ask him for a specific number or trade items with turn.

Concentration. This game can be played in a number of ways. Generally, a specific number of playing cards are placed, face down, on the table. Your child turns a card over, one at a time, attempting to match two cards. The game calls for remembering where specific cards are placed, as he systematically searches for pairs. If he does not match a pair, cards are kept face down. Pairs are removed from the table. The game can be played with two people-or more.

“Fish” can also be played with playing cards. The object is to ask your opponent if he has a card you need to make a pair. Each player starts with four cards. Players take turns asking their opponent for a matching card. If the opponent does not have the “match,” the asking player draws from the card stack. The game however, can be played as a multiplication game. Whatever pair is gotten, the child doubles or triples the face value of the cards.

Maintaining a daily calendar teaches, in an almost incidental way, adding by seven and multiplying by seven. Children can make their own calendars, with assistance, and then keep track of the passage of tune by crossing out each day after it has passed.

There are many ways of using division around the house if opportunities are used when they are available. In fact, creating them helps even more. Let your child assist you in separating things into even clusters. For example, after baking cookies, let your child assist you in solving the problem of how many should go into each place. As an incidental factor, mention, “That’s right, twenty-one cookies and seven plates means each person gets three cookies-because 7 times 3 is 2 1. ”

Mathematical, sequential reasoning enters into all kinds of daily uses. Determining halves, quarters, thirds, et cetera, when separating things is done daily in many households; for example, “Let’s split this apple. You take half and I’ll take the other half.” Asking children to follow the directions involved in simple cooking activities gives them the opportunity to measure, mix, and follow a sequence to a natural conclusion.

Here’s a game that is fun and can be regularly played. Write a number over each letter of the alphabet. Let your child use a “master card” so that he can refer to it. That is, A has a 1 over it, B has 2, C has 3, etc. Then write a message like “Dad + Jimmy = _________.” The problem is solved by changing each letter to a number, adding them, and then getting the total. You can also use division by writing “Dad divided by C = – .” (Likewise, you can use subtraction and multiplication as well.)

Counting with another activity is extremely helpful. Teachers call this the “one-to-one correspondence.” For example, as a child moves his piece in a board game, have him count aloud each time he moves the piece. Have him count aloud as he takes each step when he walks across the room. Have him clap his hands as he counts or clap for each step as he hops across the yard.

The arithmetic children use in school, that is, number problems on a page, are really a formalization of all kinds of experiences dealing with measurements, time, and space. Children who are performing poorly in math at school do not need drilling at home of specific problems. If they are to develop the foundations for competency in math, they need multiple experiences that allow them to reason with numbers in their activities of daily living. These activities will allow them, in turn, to develop the generalizations necessary for handling the formal arithmetic they encounter at school. Enjoyable, fun experiences will go further toward helping your child than a repetition of the frustration he regularly faces when confronted with formal math.

Online Math Help: All Math.com     A+ Math      Ask Dr Math     Interactive Math (High School) Math.com       Newton’s Window     Convert- me.Com (Measures and Measure Conversion)

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Memes! A way of describing cultural information being shared. An element of a culture or system of behavior that may be considered to be passed from one individual to another by nongenetic means, especially imitation.

Dad helping me with my math homework.

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