Math Happiness Project

Some of our favorite math conversations we've had with our own kids happened in the car, at the dinner table, or while waiting for water to boil with just a simple question: "I have 8 tens and 3 ones. Who am I?" That's the whole format. We call them "Who am I?" questions, and they're one of our favorite quick math questions to build place value understanding. These questions are effective because they ask kids to do something different than a typical place value worksheet does: instead of...

We love that the sand creates a giant sensory box that children can use to help them explore different math concepts. The beach also has tons of free math manipulatives! Shells, rocks, and sand are natural counters, sortable objects, and building materials which can serve as great supports as children explore various math concepts. Here are five simple beach activities for kids to try on your next trip to the sand that are fun and help keep math skills strong over the summer. 1. Collect and...

Many families worry about “summer slide” or wonder how to help their child feel more prepared (and confident) for math when school starts again. The good news is that supporting mathematical thinking does not have to feel like recreating school at home. In fact, some of the most meaningful math learning happens in low-pressure moments when children are exploring ideas naturally. Here are five things you can do this summer to help your child head into the fall feeling more confident, capable,...