As we face 2021 head on we know that our children are going to need a little extra help getting back on track academically. Studies show that students will end up losing more ground in math and in reading than any other subjects. In fact, studies based on NWEA data predicted students could learn half or up to a full year less math in 2020-21, compared to what they would learn in a typical year.
Schools are increasingly relying on parent involvement to help students in all subjects, but especially in math. But we are not all cut out to be teachers, and the newer math techniques leave many of us baffled.
What if you could replace the frustration of trying to teach our kids math with joy and play? Sign me up! Scientists have determined that it can take approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain. 400!! But if those lessons are taught through play, that number is reduced to 10-20 repetitions. Luckily there are plenty of play-based techniques we can integrate into our daily lives to help our kids retain and gain the knowledge they need.
Building Math Skills With LEGO Bricks
The humble LEGO® brick is so much more than just a piece of plastic waiting to be stepped on. The world’s most popular toy can be used to teach kids everything from spatial awareness to data analysis. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to use LEGO® to reinforce math skills of all levels.
Learn Your Numbers
Break out those duplo blocks and encourage your child to build their numbers. Check out these free printables from lifeovercs.
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Teach Fractions
The symmetrical shape of a LEGO® brick makes it the perfect toy to teach kids about fractions. You can count the pegs and discuss the parts of each brick, or combine and pull apart bricks to explore the fractions of a whole. This video from We Are Teachers gives some great examples.
Building Arrays
When teaching kids to multiply visualization is helpful. When you look at the studs on top a lego, you see an array! Kids examine the rows to figure out the equation. For example, one lego brick with 8 studs (2 horizontal rows of 4 studs, 2 x 4 = 8)
