When it comes to learning math, many students find it difficult and overwhelming. Every kid is different, which means they have different reasons for dreading math class or avoiding it altogether. Whether they experience anxiety, boredom, or simply find it difficult, making math fun again can be quite a challenge. However, there are plenty of ways to turn things around and make it entertaining again.
Keep in mind that making this subject fun reduces stress and enhances the learning experience. Whether they need to get online homework help in mathematics or study for an upcoming test, there are many ways to help them achieve good results while having fun. Continue to read to find a few ideas on how to make math stress-free and fun again for children.
Using modern technology
Technology is a great motivator as it can broaden perspectives and give students new ways to interact with the world around them. Thankfully, there are plenty of great websites for students to practice their math skills. From online math games to practice sheets and reviews, you can always find something every student will love. Remember, students live in a world dominated by apps and devices, so it’s only natural that they use them to help them learn and have fun.
There are math games and puzzles that balance fun with skills-building challenges. Additionally, smartphones and tablets give students new ways to engage with math, making the whole process a bit more entertaining. Keep in mind that students love technology, so implementing educational tech into the classroom can be beneficial for them.
Visual aids and picture books
As technology becomes increasingly prevalent in students’ life, they may be more attracted to visually learning a subject. Visual learners are drawn to picture books, charts, and other visual aids that help them make sense of new concepts. You can also engage students to make their own visual aids to help them remember key concepts and terms.
Picture books are great for students who prefer seeing and reading math work. There are great picture books that students can use during class and at home. From multiplication to counting, there are various topics you can find. For example, students can explore interesting math concepts and complete skills, multiplication questions, and puzzles.
Hands-on approach
Teachers know that worksheets are not always engaging when it comes to learning math. A hands-on approach means finding real-life examples of formulas and concepts, and sometimes including student interests in relevant work issues. Students can also use the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives, which is ideal for one-to-one device use or station rotations as it offers manipulation tasks for every grade level.
Teachers can also use real objects to help their students learn math in a fun way. Many math tools can help them picture abstract math concepts in the real world including play money, small objects (like gummy bears or rocks), flashcards, etc. By incorporating these items into problem-solving activities, the students have more ways to learn the subject.
Math games
A tried-and-true method for bringing competition and excitement to students is using math games. Whether they use it in person or online, math games can engage every student, making the subject more interesting. Some of the popular math games include card games, math stations, and math board games. A great example of card games is when two students use multiplication, subtraction, or exponent rules to build cards with a higher value than their opponent’s.
Math stations are for younger students and are filled with number blocks or other manipulatives during some play-based learning activities. On the other hand, math board games help students learn basic math facts while building socio-emotional skills. Additionally, there are online games that can make learning math an epic adventure.
Encourage communication and questions
Teachers should understand students and connect with parents. Parent-teacher conferences are important to share notes and get valuable insight into how students feel about math. Note that math journaling is a great way to have students reflect on the problems they’re struggling with, what they enjoy doing, and where they think they need help and more practice.
By doing this, teachers can confirm their insights, and also find something new. Encouraging communication and asking questions during class may also help students get more involved in the subject and more open to asking for help. This can lead to making math a more interesting and fun experience.
Final thoughts
Learning math and having trouble grasping the concept can be very difficult for children. Stress can lead to having a negative perception and approach to the subject in the future. That’s why managing the situation on time is crucial to help those struggling. Use different methods and always find new ways to make math entertaining.