Mathematics

Maths for the fun of it

On weekends, on rainy days, while waiting for an appointment, or on walks through the neighbourhood, learning never ends. Children explore fascinating mathematical possibilities in the world around them each day. 

For instance, maths can be found outdoors in nature; look for the symmetry in leaves; count the number, sizes, and kinds of trees on your street; and look at the various shapes and patterns in blooming flowers. Children will be learning Maths and enjoying it too! 

The following Maths activities can be done anywhere and at anytime. The possibilities are endless! 

Guess if you can

Let your child think of a number between a stated range of numbers while you try to guess the number by asking questions. 

For example: 

Child: I am thinking of a number between 1 and 100. 

Parent: Is it more than 50? 

Child: No 

Parent: Is it an even number? 

Child: No. 

Parent: Is it more than 20 but less than 40? 

Child: Yes 

Parent: Can you reach it by starting at zero and counting by 3's? 

Child: Yes 

(At this stage your child could be thinking of 21, 27, 33, or 39). Continue to ask questions which require a yes or no response. 

Once you have guessed your child's number, let your child guess a number from you by asking similar questions. 

Hand shakes

Three friends (Ava, John and Lucy) meet in town. They each shake hands with each other. 

How many hand shakes are made? 

How many handshakes will be made between 4 friends? 5 friends? 

What if 10 friends meet? How many hand shakes will be made?

Have you identified a pattern to help solve this problem?