Math Tips for parents

When children see numbers in real-life situations, they learn math much better. Here are some ideas for you to try at home:

· Measure things—find reasons to use a tape measure and a ruler. When cooking, have your child measure out the ingredients for the recipe. Use words that teach about measurement: longer, shorter, inches, feet, cup, ½ cup, teaspoon, tablespoon.

· Talk about time—give verbal cues on when you will do things. For example, “Supper will be ready in five minutes.” Or “We will leave for school at 7:40.” Use words like: before, after, days, weeks, months, years.

· Weigh things—talk about how much things weigh, like what things are heavy and what things are light.

· Notice numbers—numbers are all around us, from phone numbers and addresses to signs and price tags.

Helping your child become a strong reader

1. Encourage your child to retell stories they have read. Have them describe the pictures or tell you what they remember.

2. Have reading materials your child enjoys all around the house.

3. Provide a comfortable place at home for your child to read.

4. Use a variety of reading materials in addition to books and magazines. Cereal boxes, labels on cans, operating directions of a new tool, and recipes all provide real reasons for children to learn to read.

5. Listen and show interest in what your child is reading.