The following is a guest post from freelance writer Regi Publico.
Photo by Yan Krukov from Pexels
There are many reasons why math is boring or disliked by kids, but there are more ways that make math more fun for them to learn.
First, Why Do Kids Hate Math?
Most people, not just kids, say that they hate math. Well, it is because of several reasons. But, there are three main factors why math is one of the most hated subjects everywhere.
Math can be difficult
It is the main reason why math is not fun for kids. Due to the fast nature of teaching math, it seems that it is so complicated and hard to grasp. But, if you slow down and encourage them to learn, it can help lessen their negative thinking and not be afraid of math.
Numbers can be stressful
Math needs focus to understand the concepts that need to be learned. But, because of the short attention span of kids, it seems to be hard to understand and only causes stress. So, having extra patience in supporting them to learn is a great way to engage kids in learning math.
There is a mismatch of interest.
Kids dream about being something in the future. Some want to be a dancer, a painter, police officers, or a lawyer. But, the world is nothing without math. You can explain to the kids that math is present anywhere, and it should be learned because math and logical thinking can help kids survive the harsh world.
Every kid has a different reason why they are not keen on learning math. But, you can help them realize that there is more than that. Keep reading to learn some tips on bringing fun to learning math!
So, What Makes Math Fun For Kids?
Maybe you are reading this article because your kid does not want to study math. Either your kid is in the nursery and uninterested in learning basic concepts, or in middle school, complaining all the way. So, from making your kids’ free time educational to having an engaging online math class, here are some tips that can help you make math fun for kids.
Educational Videos
Kids nowadays are glued to their tablets or phones, playing games or watching videos. Chances are they will choose to be entertained by games instead of studying Math. So, why not combine it and use it to teach them as well? There are plenty of cartoons, tutorials, and clips that can help your child learn and entertain at the same time.
Online Games
Did you know that every single game is developed through math? So, why not open that idea to your kid, and instead of restricting them to play online games, let them be? Add a puzzle game or online math game to their online math games to engage them in learning math while having fun. Learning works best if it is interactive and enjoyable to kids.
Real-life Examples
Kids often do not see the relevance of math in their everyday lives. “How can I apply fractions and decimals in real-life?” is a question that can be brought up in a conversation.
You can incorporate math in activities inside the house, such as cooking (portion sizes and measurements) or watching sports (scores). Then, it is also good to talk about it outside, like when going shopping (money and discounts) and telling the time (hours and minutes).
Hands-on Experience and Audiovisual Support
One of the reasons why math is boring is because math is traditionally taught with only lectures and worksheets. Kids are attracted to colorful and beautiful learning materials. Instead of teaching them by the book, use visual aids, charts, illustrations, and actual math-related materials like play money, shape blocks, small objects for counting (popsicle sticks, buttons, abacus), dice, and clocks, to help kids understand abstract concepts and apply them to everyday situations.
Insert Math In Conversations Every Now And Then
Sometimes, you can hear the complaint, “I do not need to learn math because it will not help me in the future!”. Well, math is everywhere. You can sneak questions in everyday conversations like, “What is the time after fifteen minutes?", "How much is this with a 10% discount?", and "How many points do they need to get to win the game?". Making the kids realize that math is everywhere will help them see the importance, which leads to kids enjoying discussing math.
Entertain their Questions
Kids ask questions all the time. As an adult, you tend to disregard their inquiry. But, it is natural for them to be curious, so answer them, no matter how simple their question is! When you pay attention to them, you fulfill their satisfaction, and they will come back for more. But, if you encounter a problem that you do not know the answer to, do not panic! There is the internet, you can learn simultaneously, there is no shame in that.
The Takeaway: Math is more than just numbers—it’s part of everyday life.
Math is more than just the hard stuff. You can help your kids love math by trying some of the tips above. Even if progress in math is not the same for every kid, you can still make it fun to learn. Be supportive to your kid, encourage and teach them as the moment presents, entertain every question they ask, and you can also learn something along the way!
Regi Publico is a full-time writer who is also an artist for fun. She takes pride in her towering collection of books and loves reading about anything under the sun. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge through every article that she writes. You can find her on LinkedIn.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Justin Grays. Any content provided by the author is of their opinion and has not been verified by Justin Grays.