How to Make Math Fun Through Inexpensive Games

Math can be so boring for most kids. But you can incorporate a new and fun way to make and play games that are actually teaching them math skills. Read on to learn how to make math fun through inexpensive games.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Manila file folders
• Small Zip-lock bags
• Packaging tape
• Crayons, markers and colored pencils
• Numbers, pictures and colors to match
• Laminator or clear contact paper (optional)

1. Understand all teachers and parents need ideas on how to get children excited about math. Pictures and numbers just don't do it. Now, let's try combining those into simple manila folder games. Cut-outs from magazines, drawn pictures and numbers can make math so much fun they forget they are learning new concepts and problem-solving skills.

2. The first game is for numbers one to 10 but can be extended or designed with more components to match for older learners. Take and cut or draw 10 objects that have to do with a season. For instance, draw 10 different mittens with all different designs. Now make a match for each of them and you are teaching matching, classification, counting and having fun.

3. If you want to make it more complex, you can make the mittens with different designs on them as well. After cutting out the mittens glue 10 of them inside the folder on one side. Put the other 10 mittens in a Ziplock bag and attach with packaging tape to the other side.

4. Consider playing the Folder game. Ideas can be used for all subjects including science and reading. A second game is done with drawing 10 different dice and putting dots on them from one to 20. Then cut out numbers one to 20 and match them to the dice with the correct number of dots. Colors can also be used to help those who need a little more assistance to be successful. Place the dice on one side of the folder and attach with glue. Place the numerals into a Ziplock bag and attach to the other side. This activity can be extended by adding more dice and dots and numerals to match.

Tips & Warnings

• Children tend to be more enthused about anything they help create, so let them help you color, cut and design their game. Use themes your children like such as race cars, dinosaurs, bugs or airplanes and draw or cut the pictures out and follow the same directions as above. Keep this helpful hint in mind: Stickers if laminated or covered in clear contact can be used and no drawing or cutting is necessary...just buy two sets.

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