The following is a guide to preschool math:First, use descriptive words in your everyday speech to help kids learn relationships, space, and planes. For example, when asking them to get something for you, you can say, \u201cCan you grab my bag, it is in front of the television.\u201d Or when you park, explain what you did, \u201cWe just parallel parked, which means we parked along the curb.\u201d The more you use words like higher, lower, behind, larger, smaller, equal, vertical, odd, even, etc. in everyday speech, the easier it is for kids to understand what these words mean in relation to math.<\/p>\n
Second, count with your kids. <\/strong>The best way for a preschooler to learn about numbers is through counting. Children should learn to count just about everything. When you give them a snack, say stuff like, \u201cHow many pretzels do you have?\u201d and then let them count them out. Counting objects and discussing the results help kids realize what numbers represent, and how that translates into their daily lives.<\/p>\n Next, play number games.<\/strong> Roll dice, move pieces up that many spaces, etc. When kids use numbers in fun, they do not have as hard of a time with them. So, help them use numbers regularly by playing games, reading counting books, asking them to count, and ask them to use numbers.<\/p>\n Part of preschool math is geometry and spatial relationships. <\/strong>The best way to help your child understand this is again through practice. When you are in your kitchen, ask your child to point out several round or circular shaped items. Ask them to identify triangles, rectangles, etc. Soon they will learn that not all shapes of the same category are identical. A triangle can be skinny, fat, upside down, sideways, etc. The more you discuss shapes, their properties, etc. the better kids understand geometry. Using building blocks can help.<\/p>\n Another aspect of preschool math is measurement. <\/strong>The best way to teach this is again practical application. Have your preschooler measure out ingredients when cooking. Ask them to identify who is taller you or them, and then use a ruler to measure how much taller you are. You can set up things for them to learn more about measuring and understanding distance. Let them problem solve and figure out how to bridge a gap, etc.<\/p>\n