When we speak of mathematics, we speak of a basic subject for life, for the development of the capacity for analysis and for the ability to exercise the mind. Consequently it is a fundamental subject, since everything in life is mathematics, but also a complex subject, especially for children. For this reason, the first phases of the maths and the first stimuli with respect to this discipline must be carried out in a subtle, simple way and to be able to be fun , since this way the little ones will have the opportunity to learn to relate to the maths without stigmas nor preconceived ideas , especially those related to the difficulty of learning this compulsory subject. Let’s not forget that it is the subject that usually costs children the most!
That is why in today’s article we want to offer you a whole series of ideas to apply at home or in class when working and learning mathematics , in order to be able to carry out this learning in an innovative and interactive way that the little ones will love .
Specifically, we want to show you a series of ideas for simple and easy-to-execute crafts with which children can get in touch with mathematics almost without realizing it. In addition, we can especially encourage basic mathematical operations, addition and subtraction , and help children to cultivate and maintain an adequate level of concentration.
Craft ideas to enjoy math
Detachable plastic eggs
To make this game possible you will need plastic eggs. These types of eggs are becoming more and more frequent in children’s activities, so it is possible that you already have them at home or that you can buy them easily. You can also use the usual plastic ones that we find in typical chocolate eggs in any bakery or grocery store. Many times we have these containers and we do not know what use to give them, so here we present a very original one. Of course, make sure they are complete and have their two parts perfectly fit!
Once you have the plastic egg containers, take a marker to mark on the plastic surface , and with a standard color (such as black) capture the addition or subtraction operations in one half. In the other, capture the result.
The task is to mess up all the eggs and have the child assemble them with the correct results. You can repeat this task as many times as you want to encourage the practice of math with the little ones.
Popcorn Math
Encouraging mathematics can be a simple and imaginative task, that is why we have thought about using something as common as popcorn to do it. Use this method on the weekend or at snack time, doing simple math with popcorn. For this you will need a cardboard plate, a marker and a lot of popcorn.
To start, divide the plate into three parts with the marker . In two of them the addends will go and in the third the result. Then, create an addition operation by placing the sign “positive (+) or subtraction by placing the negative sign (-)” and do not forget to also place the sign “equal (=)”. Before the sign put a quantity of popcorn and after the sign another quantity. The child must solve the operation by finding the amount of popcorn to put in the result. And if the operation is correct … the next step will be to eat them!
You can also use materials that you have in abundance at home, such as buttons, coins, tweezers, pompoms … or other objects that do not represent any risk to the health of children.
Rotating calculator
Disposable cups and a marker are needed for this activity. Once gathered, we will begin to stack a quantity of 5 glasses.
- On the edge of the first glass, where we place the mouth to drink, mark with the marker the amounts you want (for example, from 0 to 5 or according to the child’s level) all around it.
- On the edge of the second glass, place the signs: positive (+) and at the other end the negative (-).
- In the third glass, always on the edge, place the numbers from 0 to 10.
- In the fourth glass only the equal sign, two or more times.
- In the fifth and last glass, place the results of all possible operations.
Now you just have to say the operations and, with a movement of the glasses, the child will be able to turn them until they find the correct result for the operation that you have previously said.
With these interesting activities it is clear that entertaining mathematics is a matter of imagination, desire … and a lot of creativity!
And you, have you been encouraged to do some fun craft to work the maths?
