Using Kindergarten Math Games During Winter And Summer Breaks

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Most schools allow for a few weeks off in the winter and a summer break ranging in length from several weeks to several months, but there’s a growing push for limited vacation breaks. Many U.S. educators feel that long breaks can lead to a “brain drain” effect. Children gradually forget the basic concepts that they spend their school days learning, especially math-related concepts, as mathematics are often taught incrementally through one concept at a time. Younger children are more susceptible to this effect. Fortunately, if your child is in the K-3 age group, regularly practicing mathematics can prevent the negative consequences of a long vacation break. Educators often recommend electronic kindergarten math games, as electronic games are an effective way to give young children a head start on the next semester or year of their educations.

The Advantages of Math Games
Electronic kindergarten math games have several advantages over paper workbooks. The biggest advantage is probably the fun factor, which parents shouldn’t discount. Kindergarten-age kids often find it difficult to stay focused on mathematics, especially during school breaks when they’re outside of a classroom environment. Fun electronic games with bright colors and interesting characters can keep them practicing for a few minutes per day, which is more than enough time to reestablish some of the core concepts of mathematics. Electronic math games are also easier to track. Many programs offer progress charts, which you can use to spot potential weak areas. By working with your child’s teacher, you can establish an effective plan to re-teach any poorly understood concepts. Electronic games give a more individualized educational experience, which allows for much faster progression. Customized lesson plans are extremely helpful for younger children and help to keep kids from falling behind in the classroom.

Finding The Right Games and Using Them Effectively
Of course, kindergarten math games aren’t all the same and they require active participation on the part of the parent, especially during holiday breaks when young kids might resist anything that resembles schoolwork. You should look for a math game with a fairly broad curriculum. Online games are a great choice, as they can be used from any computer and progress info is typically tracked through easy-to-read charts. Use the same types of games throughout the child’s first few years of schooling, as this will make it easier for kids to progress. Many parents choose to use electronic math games through holiday and summer breaks, but also during the school year. This can be a great way to keep kids learning and can quickly lead to results, especially for kids who have struggled with math concepts in the past.

Keeping a Consistent Approach When Teaching Younger Kids Mathematics
Whether young children are going to a private school, a public school or being educated at home, regular attention to mathematics is incredibly important. Consistency is key, especially during breaks, as kids can quickly fall behind. Many classrooms re-teach basic math for the first few months of every new school year, but with an individualized curriculum that uses electronic math games, kids can establish a strong, clear understanding of math that will serve them throughout their academic careers.

Kindergarten math games can be an especially effective tool to bridge semesters and can keep kids from losing any of the basic concepts that they’ve spent time learning. Be sure to look for an appropriate educational program and to track your child’s progress frequently. It’s also important to avoid pushing the games too much, as the best electronic games can be effective in small chunks of about 20-30 minutes of play per day. With consistent practice, you’ll improve your child’s education while giving him or her a chance to relax during a winter or summer break.