Building Math Confidence

Math can be a daunting subject for many kids and families, but it doesn’t have to be. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) in collaboration with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) suggests that making children more comfortable with math can begin as a toddler. Increasing you and your child’s familiarity and comfort with numbers can start with basic math concepts. Here are some ways to incorporate math-talk in your daily life!

1. Include counting and numbers all the time, like while washing their hands or getting ready for bed

• “Let’s count while we wash! 1-2-3…”

• “Look, the clock says 7 o’clock, it’s almost time for bed!”

2. Describe objects using their shapes

• “Grapes are shaped like a circle. What shape is it when I cut it in half?”

• “This book is long and thin like a rectangle”

3. Include measurements and classifications when possible

• “This recipe needs 2 sticks of butter. Can you get two sticks out of the fridge for me?”

• “This car ride does feel really long. Thank you for being patient, we should be there in 5 more minutes”

• “There are only a few blueberries in your pancake. Let’s add more!”