Preschool Math: Everything You Need To Know (Free Checklist)
In preschool, math is all about learning the basics – understanding what numbers are, counting, and basic operations like addition and subtraction. There are a variety of ways to teach preschool math, including worksheets and activities that can help reinforce the concepts.
Ways to Teach Math Concepts
If you’re wondering how to teach preschool math, I’m going to walk you through some of the best methods to help you feel confident helping your little one learn what they need to know.
There are so many fun ways to teach math concepts to young children. Most of them include a hands-on approach, which is always best for learning with PreK and preschool kids.
Math Manipulatives
One way to introduce math concepts is by using manipulatives – objects that children can touch and feel to help them understand abstract ideas. For example, you could use blocks to teach addition, or beads to teach counting.
One great thing about manipulatives is that they can be used across all grade levels. So, if you have a child who is struggling with math, using manipulatives as a teaching tool can help them catch up.
Math Centers
Another popular way to teach preschool math is through centers. Although centers are popular in preschools and daycare, they are also a great way to teach math concepts kids at home.
Math centers can be as simple as a small grouping of related activities, or they can be more complex with multiple steps and activities. Centers are great for kids who like to move around and explore, since they can rotate through different centers to keep things interesting.
Math Worksheets
Another approach is to use preschool math worksheets. Worksheets can provide practice and help kids become more comfortable with math concepts.
There are a variety of different worksheets available to help teach pre-math skills. You can find worksheets that focus on counting, number recognition, addition, and subtraction.
Math Games
Math games are another fun way to learn math skills. Games can make learning more enjoyable for kids and help them practice skills in a relaxed setting. There are a variety of different math games available, from simple games that use basic math concepts, to more complex games that cover a variety of skills.
Math Activities
Finally, you can also teach math concepts through activities. These activities might require a bit more preparation than some of the other methods, but they’re often a lot of fun for kids.
No matter which method(s) you choose, be sure to take the time to help your child understand the concepts. Repetition and practice are key in helping kids learn and master pre-math skills.
Teaching Preschool Math Concepts
The best way to teach preschool math is to focus on one concept at a time. Once kids have a basic understanding of the first concept, then introduce the next concept while revisiting the first concept to keep it fresh in their minds.
This can be as simple as counting pieces of their snack and when that comes easily, move to asking how many there are that are red, then how many there are after they eat two.
Learning techniques like this don’t feel like learning and taste pretty good too! Not to mention your audience is being held captive in a booster chair or is at least fascinated with their food.
What Should I Teach My Preschooler?
A great place to start is by teaching them about numbers, number recognition and counting. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through songs, stories, or games.
Once your child understands numbers and counting, you can move on to basic addition and subtraction. These concepts can also be taught through fun activities and games.
Finally, when your child has a good understanding of addition and subtraction, you can start teaching them about money and time.
If you’re not sure what math concepts preschoolers need to know before Kindergarten, the free downloadable list below will help you make sure you’re covering everything they need to know.
Download your free copy of Math Concepts for Preschoolers
Preschool Math Activities
Below are some fun preschool activities that can help teach preschool math concepts:
- Use manipulatives to help children understand addition and subtraction. For example, use blocks to represent numbers and have children count the number of block, then add or subtract a few at a time and have your child recount the blocks.
- Use a basket or container and ask your child to put two items in the basket. Then 4, now 3, etc. This simple activity includes practicing counting, following directions, and if you play your cards right… helps tidy their toys up before dinner!
- Another easy activity is to bring your child into the kitchen with you and ask them to help count out ingredients like putting 3 M&Ms on the top of each cookie. Who doesn’t feel motivated to learn when cookies are involved?
Preschool Math Worksheets
There are a variety of preschool math worksheets that can help kids learn the basics while having fun at the same time. Worksheets can be used to reinforce the concepts that have been taught, or to introduce new concepts.
One type of worksheet is a simple counting sheet. This worksheet might have a number on it and ask the child to count how many objects are shown.
Another type of worksheet is an addition or subtraction sheet. These types of printable worksheets might have a series of problems that the child needs to solve in a simple way that they can understand. With colorful pictures that keep your child entertained, worksheets are often less expensive than buying games or manipulatives.
You can also choose worksheets that focus on a theme that is interesting (pirates, anyone?) and allows you to focus on the concepts your child needs the most work on.
Freedom to jump ahead, or review a concept more is one of the best things about worksheets and printable PDFs.
Preschool Math Games
Games are a great way to teach preschool math concepts. Not only are games fun for kids, but they can also help kids learn while they are playing.
There are a variety of different types of math games that can be played. Some games focus on counting, others focus on basic addition and subtraction, and still others focus on more difficult concepts like money and time.
Math Centers in Preschool Learning
Math centers are a great way to help kids learn in a fun and interactive way. Centers can be set up with a variety of different types of activities that focus on different math concepts.
Some centers might have a worksheet that needs to be completed, while others might have a game to play. There are also centers that might have manipulatives that can be used to help kids learn.
Math centers are a great way to keep kids interested in learning and help them to retain the information they learn. They allow kids to learn in a variety of ways and help to make learning fun.
A math center can be a designated area in the home or classroom with different activities and materials that focus on math skills. This can be a great way for kids to explore and learn new concepts at their own pace.
When it comes to teaching preschool math, the most important thing is to make sure the lessons are enjoyable and interactive. This will help keep kids interested in learning, and enable them to retain the information they learn.
There are a variety of different activities that can be used to teach preschool math concepts, including manipulatives, worksheets, games, and math centers.
By using a variety of methods, kids can learn in a way that is best for them. And who knows? They might even learn to love math when they see how fun it can be!
