Ways to help your child learn outside of school!
- Use everyday objects to allow your child to explore the concept of fractions. For example, have your child divide a candy bar (or a healthy snack) between three people. Ask, “How much does each person receive?” (Each person would receive 1 ⁄3). Suppose there are three candy bars that you plan to share with two friends. Have your child describe the amount that each person will receive.
- Have your child explain how to write fractions in different ways. For example, what are some different ways to write 4/3? He or she could answer 4÷3, 1 1 ⁄3, 2 ⁄3 + 2 ⁄3, 2 x 2 ⁄3, 8 ⁄6, 4 x 1 ⁄3 , etc.
- Ask your child to give you a fraction equal to a decimal. For example, what are two fractions that can be used to represent 0.6? Answers could include 6 ⁄10, 60⁄100, 12⁄20 , or 3 ⁄5.
- Encourage your child to stick with it whenever a problem seems difficult. This will help your child see that everyone can learn math.
- Praise your child when he or she makes an effort and share in the excitement when he or she solves a problem or understands something for the first time.