Math Tips

As many of you will agree the way we teach math to our kids today is different from the way it was taught even ten years ago.  This can be frustrating to everyone.  My advice in this area is focus on the basics.  If your child does not know his/her math facts, math is going to be extremely difficult for them this year and in the years to come.  Counting up on dots and fingers will only get you so far in life before it starts to slow you down.  If your child cannot tell you automatically, without using fingers or dots, what 6 + 7 is or 8 x 3 this is something you need to work on.  The simplest way is through flash cards.  Spend five to ten minutes each night practicing flash cards with your child.  You can purchase an inexpensive set at any dollar store.  If this is a problem for you please let me know and I will make a set for you.  Most importantly, your child must know all their math facts from memory!