Even if your child is enrolled in an early childhood education program, learning should continue at home as well. Math is a subject many children struggle with later in their school careers, so the earlier you can help your little one understand basic math, the more of an advantage you give them. Like music or reading, math is a whole new language, and everyday use can make a huge difference.

How to Help Your Child Learn Math

1. Count Everyday Objects

For young children, understanding amounts can be hard. In early childhood education, counting is one of the first skills they learn, and it’s easy for you to help them practice throughout the day. When you go to the grocery store, have them count the number of fruits you buy. If you see flowers on your walk, count the petals. How many steps does it take to get upstairs to their room? How many grapes are you packing for their lunch tomorrow? Not only does this exercise make counting seem like a game, but it’s also valuable interaction with your child.

2. Have Them Help in the Kitchen 

Adults know that cooking is math-intensive. Exact measurements may be beyond a young child’s full comprehension, but through measuring and adding to a recipe, they can pick up a rudimentary understanding of addition and subtraction. Plus, you might foster a lifelong love of cooking with a valuable life skill.

3. Read Them Math-Based Stories

Early childhood education stories are full of math. Think of “The Three Little Pigs” or “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Finding stories that are rooted in math not only encourages a love of reading and experience counting, but it also ingrains in your child reading comprehension skills that are incredibly helpful when they head to grade school.

Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center in Fort Thomas, KY, offers premier toddler, infant, and prekindergarten care in a state-of-the-art childcare center. Whether it’s daycare or preschool, their knowledgeable, compassionate staff believes in giving every child everything they need to succeed in grade school and beyond. For more information, call (859) 441-5888 or visit them online today.