Introducing math concepts to a toddler can seem nearly impossible, especially when they have such a short attention span. While you can count through the numbers repeatedly, it’s only going to get them so far. Fortunately, there are several techniques that parents can use to prepare their children for preschool and the following should provide a good place to start. 

3 Ways to Introduce Math Concepts to Toddlers

1. Use Shapes

Incorporating toys into their learning will encourage your toddler to engage. Start by sorting their building blocks according to shape. Set up two pieces of construction paper, having the child place two squares on the one and two triangles on another. 

Ask them how many are in each and then have them combine the blocks. Continuing to do this by adding or subtracting various pieces will help them to visualize this basic concept. 

2. Bake Cookies

Measuring out the ingredients will help your little one to become familiar with fractions. For example, if the recipe requires a cup of flour and a half-a-cup of sugar, make sure to point out how one fits into the other. Do the same for any teaspoons that may appear later in the process. 

Once the cookies have cooled, and they’re enjoying one with a glass of milk, try cutting another into pie-shaped sections. Take them apart and let your child slowly put the pieces together, taking the time to explain the fraction that each section represents. 

3. Provide Coins

Giving little ones their own spending money is an effective way to introduce them to preschool math. They could either be in charge of selecting their snacks for the week or have the opportunity to buy themselves a treat. 

Help them to evaluate the prices and discuss the different items that they could select. If there are discounts, such as buy one get one half off, ask if they can figure out how much the second item will cost.

Register your child for preschool by stopping over at Imagination Childcare Academy Inc. Located in Rochester, NY, this childcare facility offers an assortment of programs and commits to helping their students succeed. Each of their instructors is certified by the state and utilizes interactive tactics to encourage learning. Call (585) 413-3948 to set up a tour or visit their website for additional information on their preschool program.