Number Sense
With learning how to use numbers in math, aside from counting, allows children to really understand numbers and their representation to one another. When we just teach children to count (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5...) those numbers do not mean anything. Children can say those numbers in order, or in reverse order. However, math is what helps children understand numbers, their true purpose, and how to use them.
How can we teach math?
We always start with simple problems. One easy task, for more visual or kinesthetic students, is using Domino's or popsicle sticks (or some other easily countable object).
Domino's give the numbers out directly. So we can have the students add the two sides of the Domino and see what the whole piece is.
Popsicle sticks allows children to physically manipulate a set and see how those "addends" equal the sum.
Variety
We must be conscious of what we teach our children and how. We must teach to strengths and interests. We must show our students the variety that life has to hold and how to think differently.
"Education is not the learning of the facts, but the training of the mind to think."--Albert Einstein
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