When you describe how you approach a task, you are not only sharing your strategy, you are showing ways to problem solve. When you say, “I see a triangle there, so that makes me think about half of a rectangle…” you are helping children see HOW to think, not WHAT to think.

Ask any expert in any field and they will tell you that making mistakes help them become the achievers they are. Mistakes are opportunities to learn and refine our thinking. Show children that mistakes are ok and are even important for learning.

Yes, answers are important, but let’s face it, in the modern world getting an answer is easy. What we need are creative thinkers in our world. Help nurture creative thinking by talking about thinking

Count things. Figure out change. Calculate how much time things take. When children see the adults they care about using math, they are inclined to try it too.

Sometimes adults don’t have the answers. That’s ok! One of the best responses may be, “I’m not sure. Let’s figure it out together."

“I’m not a math person" is a type of message that can unintentionally deflate confidence in a child’s ability to succeed at math. Try shifting to, “I try very hard at math,” or “I know I will get it if I work hard.”

Sometimes adults can over-help with math. It’s ok for kids to come to a deeper understanding on their own. Think about the times when you have worked hard and achieved, and help others feel that same sense of accomplishment and confidence.

Be playful and have fun. Math is everywhere. Math is beautiful. Math is creative.