MAKING FUN OF MATH!


Homeschool checkers
Write math problems on 32 self-sticking circles , or you can use squares of paper. Tape over the black squares on the checkerboard. Play checkers the regular way, only the player must solve the math problem before being allowed to land on the square. If he makes a mistake, he must try again until he answers correctly before moving.

Math Jump
Using self-sticking circles or a permanent marker, write the numerals 1-12 on the checkers. Play the game according to regular checker rules, except that whenever a player wants to jump another checker, he must multiply (or add, for younger players) the two checkers--the one he is moving and the one he is jumping. For example, if the player is jumping a #2 checker with a #9 checker, he must say out loud, "9 x 2 = 18". If he jumps more than one
checker, he must do each combination.

Egg Carton Counting
Use an egg carton to reinforce numbers. Using a permanent marker, write numerals and dots on the inside of each cup. #1 with one dot, then #2 with two dots, # 3 with three dots, and so on until you have done the whole egg carton. Fill each cup with something fun to count, like pennies or buttons. For very young children, use something edible that the child won't choke on, such as Cheerios or raisins. Put one piece in the #1 cup, two pieces in the #2 cup, etc. Take out the items, and let your child replace, putting in the correct number of items for each cup. Take out combinations, and show your child that they are equal. For example, empty the cups for #2 and #3, and notice that it is the same amount of items as the cup for #5.

Patterns
When walking, notice patterns in nature (like in ferns) and man-made patterns (like in brick walls). Recognizing patterns aids in mathematical thinking. Take along a magnifying glass, and identify shapes and patterns in plants and bugs.

Hopscotch
Hopscotch helps children to see clearly number combinations and simple addition and subtraction.

Board Games
Don't neglect regular board games that you already have around the house. Parcheesi is one of our family's favorites, as the children learn to recognize number combinations by rolling the dice and moving board pieces. Scrabble teaches not only spelling and vocabulary, but number strategies, multiplication and addition. Checkers, Chinese Checkers, and Chess all
sharpen thinking skills by rewarding strategy and thinking ahead.

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