| It is vital in the world today for
children to build an understanding about what mathematics is and what it
means to know math. If they don't see themselves as math learners in
their early years, students' chances of liking math later diminish
greatly. Math is more that doing calculations on worksheets.
To "Do Math" is to explore, justify, represent, solve, compare,
construct, discuss, use, investigate, describe, develop an predict.
Children should understand that math can help them interpret the world and
solve problems that occur in it. For this reason it is important
that parents help reinforce the learning of mathematics at home even
before children come to school.
"Perhaps one of the most important ways
that families can reinforce mathematics achievement is simply by having a
positive attitude that children can master challenging math. Too often, we
undermine our children's interest in math by using statements such as
"math is hard" or "I didn't like math either."
Research shows that when we believe all children can learn challenging
materials and we set high expectations, children rise to the
occasion." (Richard W. Riley, Secretary, U.S. Dept. of Education)
Things you can do to create a math climate at
home:
 Let
your children know that you believe they can succeed.
Be
ready to talk with your children about mathematics and to listen
to what they are saying.
Be more concerned with the processes of doing mathematics the
with getting the correct answer.
Try no to tell children how to solve the problem.
Practice estimation with your children whenever possible.
Model persistence and pleasure with mathematics.
Above all, enjoy mathematics. It can be FUN!
Check out the following links to learn more
about helping your children with math at home.
Help
Your Child Learn Math
Doing
Mathematics With Your Child
Activities - Math
in the Home
Math
at the Grocery Store
Math on the Go
Math for
the Fun of It
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