Mathematics can be a challenging subject for children to learn, but teaching them math tricks can make it a lot more fun and interesting! When kids discover that math can be entertaining, they become more engaged in the learning process. Math tricks are an excellent way to help children develop a love for numbers and improve their mathematical abilities.
Discovering the Magic of Math Tricks for Kids
In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular math tricks for kids that are fascinating, easy to learn, and entertaining. The purpose of this post is to encourage parents, teachers, and homeschooling parents to introduce these math tricks to children and help them improve their math skills while having fun.
The Magic of Multiplying by 11
Learning how to multiply by 11 can be quite simple and fun. Let’s pick a two-digit number such as 14. To multiply this by 11, write down the number 1 then add the two digits together (1 + 4 = 5). Place the results (5) between the two original digits (145) to get the answer. For example, 11 x 14 = 154.
The Magic of Multiplying by 9
Multiplying numbers by 9 may seem complicated at first, but it’s actually pretty easy! Write down the number you want to multiply by 9, subtract one from that number and the answer will be tens digit. Then, subtract the tens digit from 9 and that will be your ones digit. For example, 9 x 4 = 36 (4 – 1 = 3, 9 – 3 = 6).
The Magic of the Number 1089
This is one of the most popular math tricks that kids love! Pick any three-digit number where the digits are in descending order. Write the digits in ascending order next to the original number, subtract the smaller number from the larger number, and then reverse the digits in the answer. The result is 1089. For example, 984 – 489 = 495, and then add 495 to its reverse (594) to get 1089.
The Magic of Adding/Subtracting by 2
Adding and subtracting by 2 can be enjoyable when you use patterns. For instance, to add or subtract two numbers repeatedly, one could alternate subtracting and adding 2. For example, 5 – 2 = 3, 3 + 2 = 5, and repeat. This pattern can help children to quickly calculate addition and subtraction problems by 2.
The Magic of Fibonacci Numbers
Mathematics can also be used to create beautiful things, and the Fibonacci sequence is a prime example of this. Fibonacci numbers are formed by adding the previous two numbers in the sequence. This pattern occurs in nature, such as in the growth patterns of flowers, the branching out of trees, and the shells of snails. It’s a fun and fascinating trick to teach kids about patterns and how math can be applied to nature.
Mathematics is an integral part of education, and learning math tricks can make it enjoyable and engaging. Introducing children to math tricks at an early age can help them build a solid foundation and a love for numbers that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. The tricks we’ve discussed here are just a few examples of the many fun math tricks out there. So, why not try these math tricks with your child today and have fun discovering the magic of math together!
Fun and Easy Math Tricks for Kids
Math can sometimes be a tricky subject for kids to wrap their heads around. But if taught the right way, math can be a fun and exciting subject that kids actually enjoy learning! In this blog post, we’ll share some fun math tricks for kids that will help make the subject more engaging and less intimidating. Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, these tips and tricks will be sure to have your little ones excited about math.
Multiplication Made Easy with Your Fingers
One of the easiest math tricks for kids is multiplication with fingers. By using their fingers, kids can easily learn their times tables. Simply ask your child to hold up their fingers and multiply the number they want to know by the number of fingers they’re holding up. For example, if they hold up 3 fingers on one hand and 2 on the other, have them multiply 3 by 2 to get 6. This can also be a fun game to play with a group of kids.
The Nine Times Table Trick
Many kids struggle with the nine times table. But with this simple trick, they’ll be acing it in no time. Write out the nine times table up to 10 (9×1, 9×2, 9×3, etc.). Now, have your child cross out the first number in each answer (so, cross out the 9 in 9×1, the 1 in 9×2, etc.). What do they see? The answer is a series of numbers counting up from 1 to 10 (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10). So, if they’re asked what 9×7 is, they can just count from the left: 6, 3, and the answer is 63.
The Butterfly Method for Addition
The butterfly method for addition is a fun and easy way for kids to add large numbers. Start by writing out the problem vertically (for example, 47 + 38). Draw a line between the two numbers. Then, draw “wings” on either side of the line, with the same number of “spines” (for this example, we’ll use three). Now, add the first spines together (4 + 3). Write the answer (7) above the line, in the middle. Then, add the second spines together (7 + 8) and write the answer (15) below the line, in the middle. Finally, add the third spines together (4 + 3) and write the answer (7) at the bottom, in the middle. The final answer is 85.
The Pizza Fraction Game
Teaching fractions can be a tricky task. But with the pizza fraction game, learning fractions has never been so fun! Draw or print out a picture of a pizza and cut it into fractions (for example, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, etc.). Have your child put the pizza back together, using the different fractions. Not only is it a fun way to learn fractions, but your child will also get a kick out of “creating” their very own pizza.
The Magic Square Puzzle
The magic square puzzle is a great way for kids to exercise their problem-solving skills and their ability to match numbers. Begin by drawing a 3×3 grid of squares. In each square, write a number. The goal is to arrange the numbers in such a way that each row, column, and diagonal adds up to the same number. Have your child start with a simple puzzle (with smaller numbers) and work their way up to more challenging puzzles.
Math can be a tough subject for kids, but with these fun and easy math tricks, kids will no longer dread math class. Multiplication with fingers, the nine times table trick, the butterfly method for addition, the pizza fraction game, and the magic square puzzle are all fun and engaging ways to help your child learn math. Not only will they enjoy learning, but they’ll likely excel in math too! So, challenge your little ones to try these math tricks and watch them grow in confidence and excitement for math.