There seems to be a bit of anxiety among parents about the “new math” kids are learning these days. Isn’t math just math? Why can’t kids learn math the way we were taught? Isn’t 2+2 always going to be 4?
All good questions. Whether kids are engaging in Common Core, Everyday Math, Singapore Math, Russian Math, or another equally promising program, math programs these days attempt to break down algorithmic thinking by building up a child’s number sense. In plain English, knowing the why and how behind addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division steps lends itself to knowing relationships between numbers when doing algebra, calculus, and trigonometry problems. Some math programs today are more visual, some more hands-on, some emphasize modeling, some problem solving, but all have the same end. Kids need to deeply understand why and how 2+2=4, beyond memorization of the fact alone.
How do we know number sense is important? Countries who take the time to develop number sense during their children’s primary years tend to outperform American students in math. In 2015, for example, Americans ranked 42nd in the world in math, far below the global average and just above Croatia, a second world country. And while this might not intrinsically raise concern, we are also seeing many high earning jobs in STEM fields going to folks from these other countries.
The good news is, YOU don’t have to learn new math - your kids do. If your child presents an assignment unfamiliar to you, give them the time and space to practice concepts learned in class. Even if it means there will be lots of mistakes, point of trial and error, and some frustration moments as well. If they are stuck, have them talk through their thinking process with you. Let them teach you what they do know. Kids love to be in the driver's seat. If they are skill stuck, consider one of the many resources from the list below. If that doesn’t help, politely reach out to your teacher for guidance. Remember, we want kids to build up resilience and persistence. In times of struggle, remember they are doing just that.
The following resources are a mix of “new math” models, traditional math practice, and everything in between:
Kid Resources:
Ages 3-11
Math games and online downloadable resources that present math concepts visually, through music, and storytelling.
Grades K-3
Fun, short videos that allow kids to see the why behind math concepts. The cartoon format is highly engaging. Kids can take a short multiple choice quiz at the end to test their knowledge.
Grade K-6
Short games for different math concepts. Use for kids who like a bit of competition and or who need visual learning cues.
PK - High School
Cute downloadable workbooks that teach preschool through high school math concepts. Best for kids who need to take a methodical approach to learning, need a pencil and paper to do so, and do not want to be timed.
Grades 1-8
Though you will need to sign up and log in to access a free account, Prodigy offers a robust skills based program online that keeps track of kids’ emerging skills sets. Models, visuals, and games are provided for kids to learn grade level math content.
Elementary to Middle Grades
The Bill Nye of Math, Greg Tang has developed storybooks, online games, board games, as well as numerous other fun resources for kids to develop a better number sense. He is also available to help by video chat upon request.
Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division Facts Only
Free but requires you to sign-up to secure a log-in. This no frills website allows kids to work through number facts at a timed pace while being scored. Kids are then given a new set of questions based on their previous performance.
Parent Resources
Want to sharpen up your own math knowledge? Consider these two resources.
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