Online Resources for Teaching Children Number Sense

Teaching children number sense is like giving them the key to a world of numbers where they can unlock patterns, recognize quantities, and start solving problems. In a digital world, we have the benefit of countless online resources for teaching children number sense, designed to make this learning journey engaging and fun for young minds. Let’s look at the best online platforms and tools that can help children develop a strong sense of numbers.

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What Is Number Sense?

Number sense is a child’s ability to understand numbers, their relationships, and how they interact with each other. Think of it as the foundation for all things math-related. Kids show this skill in various ways whether it’s being able to count, recognize different amounts without having to count (like knowing there are three apples on the table just by looking), or having an idea of which number is bigger in a sequence. Games like hit the button maths game can be a fun and interactive way to help children develop and strengthen their number sense skills.

Why Is Number Sense Important for Young Learners?

Number sense forms the backbone of mathematics. It’s more than just knowing how to count—it’s about grasping how numbers fit together in the bigger picture. For young learners, building a solid number sense early on helps them as they move into more complex math like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and even algebra. Without it, they could struggle to make connections between numbers later on.

Early Learning of Number Sense

Children naturally begin developing number sense at a very young age. You’ll notice this through everyday interactions whether they’re counting toys, recognizing that they have “more” or “less” of something, or even making guesses about how many cookies are in a jar. Parents and teachers play a huge role in fostering this skill by engaging in number-based conversations and activities that help children see numbers in action.

Benefits of Using Online Resources

Thanks to the internet, teaching number sense doesn’t have to be limited to traditional methods like flashcards or worksheets. Online resources offer a whole new dimension of learning. These platforms are flexible, meaning you can access them anytime, anywhere. They are also interactive, keeping kids entertained while learning, which means less resistance when it’s time for a math session.

Best Online Resources for Teaching Number Sense

The internet is packed with amazing resources to help children develop number sense, from interactive games to educational videos. Here are some of the best:

Funbrain

Funbrain is a colorful and engaging site packed with educational games that cater to kids in preschool through eighth grade. It offers a variety of number-based games, like “Math Baseball” and “Count to 10,” which help children reinforce their number sense in a playful setting.

ABCmouse

ABCmouse is a subscription-based learning platform tailored for children aged 2 to 8. It offers thousands of interactive activities that help build number sense from counting to simple arithmetic. The structured, yet fun nature of the games and lessons make it easy for children to absorb number concepts while having fun.

Khan Academy Kids

Khan Academy Kids is a free resource offering math lessons for young learners. Its easy-to-navigate app offers colorful, engaging lessons that teach number sense through a series of activities. From counting to basic addition, kids can work at their own pace and enjoy cute animations as they go along.

Starfall

Starfall offers both free and paid options for early learners to dive into math basics. Its number games and activities are easy to follow and keep children entertained while learning key math skills. Whether they’re learning to count or recognizing shapes, Starfall provides a solid foundation in number sense.

Prodigy

Prodigy is a game-based learning platform aimed at kids in grades 1 through 8. It combines RPG-style adventures with math lessons, making it a hit with older children. As they progress in the game, they answer math problems that range from simple counting to more complex problem-solving. This game keeps kids engaged and motivated while improving their number skills.

Engaging Videos and YouTube Channels for Number Sense

Videos can make learning numbers even more exciting. Here are some great channels to check out:

Numberblocks

Numberblocks is a delightful YouTube series that turns numbers into adorable characters. The animated stories help kids connect with numbers and understand concepts like counting, addition, and subtraction through fun adventures.

Jack Hartmann Kids Music Channel

Jack Hartmann’s songs are a favorite among educators and parents alike. His catchy tunes are packed with educational content, and the ones focused on numbers help kids grasp important math concepts while dancing and singing along.

Apps to Teach Number Sense

Smartphones and tablets can be excellent tools for teaching kids numbers on the go. Check out these apps:

Montessori Numbers

This app is based on the Montessori method, which focuses on hands-on learning. Montessori Numbers uses simple yet effective activities to teach kids how numbers work. Kids can practice counting, sorting, and sequencing numbers in a way that feels natural to them.

Todo Math

Todo Math offers daily math challenges that help kids improve their number sense through various engaging activities. The app’s playful design and adaptive learning make it suitable for children of all skill levels.

Parent and Teacher Guides for Using Online Resources

Online resources can do wonders, but the real magic happens when parents and teachers guide the learning process. Whether it’s setting aside time each day for number activities or making math a part of daily routines (like counting steps on the way to school), these resources become even more effective when supported by adult interaction.

Creating a Balanced Learning Experience

While online resources are amazing, it’s important to balance screen time with hands-on, offline activities. Simple tasks like counting objects around the house, playing board games that involve numbers, or baking (and measuring ingredients) are great ways to reinforce number sense in everyday life.

Conclusion

There’s a whole world of online tools out there that can help teach kids number sense in a way that’s fun, engaging, and highly effective. These resources give children the chance to practice their number skills in new and exciting ways, but don’t forget to combine them with real-world activities for a well-rounded learning experience.