What is number sense and why would you want to build it? Number sense refers to the general understanding of numbers. Kids (or adults for that matter) who have good number sense see patterns and relationshps in numbers easily. Kids who struggle with math probably have poor number sense as well. Is your child stumped over understanding that 2+3 is the same as 3+2? Spending some time just working on building number sense might just help you!
1. Memorize those math facts.
Gone are the days when you have to do flash cards or drill sheets to memorize math facts. For some, that very well might be the way to go. But if your child balks at the idea of having to memorize anything then take a more gentle approach. You can use learning wrap ups, cuisinaire rods or something else to work on learning basic addition and subtraction. How does this help number sense? Kids who are comfortable with numbers will use them more easily.
2. Break out those manipulatives!
Kids who have good number sense see patterns between numbers. Manipulatives help build up that type of thinking and encourage children to recognize patterns. It doesn’t have to be a formal lesson. . .just allowing your child to play with the manipulatives is a good start. I’ve mentioned and talked at length about how I’m not a fan of preschool or formal education at a really early age. Manipulatives though, are on my ‘must do’ after about 3 years old of age.
3. Math is everywhere!
Talk about numbers and their real world contexts. While you might not use your geometry or algebra that your teachers swore you needed, you do use math every day. Recipes, schedules, even decorating your house by hanging pictures in a pattern ALL are mathematical thinking. The more you talk about ideas with your child, the better their number sense will be.
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