Another way to enhance learning is with games.

We all know children need to learn their math facts. Although some children can learn these facts the first time they see them, most children learn by seeing them over and over again. They learn by repetition. Simply using flash cards or workbook pages can be boring and not very stimulating.

But by using a game, children get the needed repetition in an interesting, fun way. And there are games available for all levels of learning. For example, the game Sum Swamp is for beginners who need practice with addition and subtraction. Totally Tut is another game that gives practice in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division as well as order of operation practice.

Does your child need practice with logic, strategy or pattern recognition? Tic Tac Twice is a fun game that will surely help. Players use two boards at once. A good move on one board may not be a good move on the other. Players must place four playing pieces in a row across, up, down or diagonal on one board. This game is based on algebraic principles.

Geoshapes is a game that is a little more challenging. Students will plan strategies and calculate risk while getting practice with their math. The goal is to be the first to fill a figure with combinations of geometric shapes.

Whatever your child’s learning goals, there are games and other tools to help. Educational manipulatives and games are some of the often-overlooked tools in our educational arsenal that can be used to both teach and entertain at the same time. While traditional methods of teaching math that have proven their value should certainly not be abandoned, educational manipulatives and games can and should be used as a resource to overcome those short attention spans for which most children are famous.

Page 2 of 2 :: First | Last :: Prev | 1 2 | Next