subject: Kids Math Games and Child Development [print this page] Kids Math Games and Child Development Kids Math Games and Child Development
Part of your child's development is learning various math concepts. While you may think in numbers, there are simple math concepts that children learn that don't involved number games. Some of the abstract concepts your child should be learning at a young age is identifying shapes, categorizing, learning number concepts, weights, and more. In many cases, one of the best ways to help your child develop the math skills that he needs is by allowing them to play kids math games. Here is a closer look at important concepts and games that can help your child learn those concepts more effectively.
Basic Counting Skills
Before your child really realizes the value of numbers, they should be learning basic counting skills. This helps them to become familiar with numbers, even before they realize what the numbers really mean. There are a variety of kids math games that you can use to help them hone these skills. Consider using special number songs, enjoy finger playing games, or take spare moments and count for fun with your child.
Meaningful Counting Skills
After your child has developed their basic counting skills, then children need to learn about meaningful counting where they understand what each number represents. Consider games that involve counting objects, letting them touch the objects as they are counting. Blocks are great for children that are learning to count meaningfully because they can touch and play with the blocks while they are counting.
Comparing Objects and Sizes
Children need to learn to compare objects and their sizes as well. A great game you can make at home is big, medium, little. Use toys or bowls to illustrate the concept. You can use three bowls of different sizes and then hide a favorite toy under the largest bowl. Tell your child that they can find their toy under the bowl that is the biggest. Then let them find the toy. You can repeat this with the little and medium bowls as well. This will help them to realize the different sizes of these objects.
Learning Shapes
Learning shapes is an important part of child development when it comes to math skills. Kids math games can help with this concept as well. One great idea is to take some construction paper, cut various shapes from the paper, and then secure them to the floor. Have your child dance with music and when you stop the music, tell them to go stand on a specific shape. This can be fun with multiple children, as long as you have enough of one shape for everyone. As you continue to play this game, they'll become more familiar with the shapes while having a great time.
Of course, these are only a few of the math concepts that your child should be learning as they develop. Other concepts they should learn include measuring, patterns, writing numbers, recognizing numbers, putting objects in order, estimating, adding, and even subtracting. For each of these concepts, find helpful kids math games to help them learn these concepts while having fun.
