What math skills should my kindergartener know?

• • Number Recognition – Be able to identify and name numbers from 0-20.
  • Number Formation – Be able to write numbers from 0 – 20.
  • Counting – Count forward from 0-100 and backward from 20-0.
  • Basic Number Sense – Comparing numbers using the words more and less. Skip count by 2s.
  • Basic Addition and Subtraction – Understand the concepts of addition (grouping together) and subtraction (taking away) within 10. Begin to recognize and use number sentences such as 3 + 1 = 4.
  • Shapes – Identify and create 2D shapes. Identify 3D shapes. Be able to classify and sort 2D and 3D shapes.
  • Patterns – Be able to identify what comes next in a pattern such as red, green, red, green, _.
  • Position – Understand and correctly apply words such as in front of/behind, over/under, first/second/third.
  • Basic Measurements – Understand and correctly apply words such as bigger/smaller, taller/shorter, more/less, heavier/lighter.
  • Time + Money – Be able to identify whole hour time on an analog clock and names of coins. Begin learning about the value of coins.

How can I help my child with kindergarten math?

• • Stay positive – If you hate math your child will be able to tell. You may not enjoy it, but you can still stay positive. Remind your student that math is more than a bunch of numbers. It’s a training ground for their minds. It’s a life-long pursuit, so if they’re struggling now it doesn’t mean they always will. Things that feel hard now will be easy in a couple of years. They just need to keep going!
  • Apply it to their life – When you’re out on a walk, ask them to identify different shapes. Have them count vehicles as they pass by. Ask them if there are more swings or slides at the park. Play hide and seek, and when they find you have them say where you were. (ex. I found you behind the couch.)
  • Use manipulatives – Base 10 blocks, bear counters, ten frames, and linking cubes are all great items to have on hand. When math moves off the page and into your little one’s hands it becomes more concrete and easier to understand.
  • Play math games + read math books – Head to your local library and ask for help finding math picture books. Find age-appropriate math games to play at home. The more you can make math fun the more your student will want to learn more!
  • Celebrate progress – What gets celebrated gets repeated. You don’t have to go out for ice cream every time your child gets a problem right, but if you see they’re trying harder (or that they finally understand a concept they’ve been struggling with) celebrate!