Mathematics is a major building block of the education system. Without this, no formal education can be acquired. Once kids start sounding alphabets and words, they are introduced to numbers so that they can develop mathematical skills over a period of time. This is the starting point where kids focus on learning simple mathematical concepts. Sometimes, you may come across children who disengage themselves from learning math as they find it difficult to understand the concepts. In such situations especially, you need well planned strategies to develop interest among children in mathematics. 

From recognizing and counting numbers, to solving complex math problems, you need to provide mathematical learning opportunities to children. Most toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarten kids are very playful and filled with curiosity. Therefore, only providing them with textual or verbal teaching would be insufficient. You need to make them understand how important math is, in terms of cognitive development. Teaching math for kids enables them to solve any mathematical problem within seconds. 

To enhance their mathematical skills, you can engage them in interesting activities so that they can concentrate on the concepts they are learning. It is important for them to like the subject in order to understand the concepts. Once they understand, it helps them solve any mathematical problem related to addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, fractions, etc. The overall academic performance of kids increases when they are acquainted with all the concepts related to mathematics. These skills are not only useful in math but also in other subjects. 

Activities That Help Kids In Learning Math 

If the lessons are not engaging then kids can get easily distracted. Therefore, you must adopt techniques that can grab the attention of children, and make them concentrate on learning math. Here are some of the engaging activities that can help your child in developing an  interest in mathematics.

  • Treasure Hunt: This is a very exciting game for children where they can utilise their energy and learn something new. With this game, you can teach addition, multiplication, shapes, measurement, etc to children. For example, ask kids to find an item that is in the shape of a cuboid. The kids will search the house to hunt for an item that resembles this shape. Similarly, you can ask them to multiply 4 x 2 and find the answer hidden somewhere in the house. 
  • Riddles: Kids are very curious about finding things that they are interested in. You can teach mathematical concepts in the form of riddles, in this regard. Ask questions related to shapes, addition and other mathematical concepts so that kids can critically think and come up with correct answers. For example, “I have four equal sides. What am I?” The answer is Square.
  • Bingo: Playing an engaging game creates interest among children. They focus on understanding the concept that you are trying to teach. Bingo is one of the best games where kids can learn in an entertaining way. You need to give them a set of cards with answers for multiplication numbers. Then, call out numbers such as 3 x 3, the kids with answer number 9 on their card will circle the number. The kids with the most correct answers will be declared the winner. 

Benefits of Learning Math

Kids learn basic concepts required for solving math problems with the help of activities. They learn math in order to develop their cognitive skills and other essential skills required for educational growth. Learning numbers to words in mathematics enables them to write and solve equations easily. Little kids have to be introduced to vocabulary knowledge for the things that start with a to z related to mathematics. This helps them learn the overall concepts in a simple and understandable way. Some of the benefits of learning math are mentioned below:

  • Develops mathematical skills.
  • Enables children to solve problems with accuracy and speed. 
  • Creates enthusiasm to participate in learning activities related to mathematics.
  • Reduces stress related to mathematics. 
  • Simplifies the lesson and the concept for better understanding and learning outcomes.