Have you ever wondered how to teach nothing? I’m not talking about taking a break from formal teaching over the summer – although maybe you’re doing that, too! I’m talking about the number zero. The concept of zero can be a struggle for small … [Read more...]
2019 Summer Game #3: Quotient and Remainder
June 11, 2019 by 2 Comments
Question: How do you divide 14 potatoes between 4 people? Answer: Mash them. Hahahaha! Most children do not enjoy solving division problems – especially problems with remainders! However, the Quotient and Remainder game found in the Math Card … [Read more...]
2019 Summer Game #1: Sum(mer) Rummy!
May 28, 2019 by Leave a Comment
It amazes me how my kids can’t wait for summer break – and then within a week, they tell me how bored they are. As I do not want them sitting in front of the computer or TV all day, I have found that adding a few math card games to their day not only … [Read more...]
Dr. Cotter on RightStart and Montessori
April 16, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Most people have heard of Montessori, but often they are not sure what it’s all about. The word Montessori refers both to a person, Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), an Italian physician and educator, and the Montessori method of education she … [Read more...]
Dr. Cotter on Helping Teach Math
December 11, 2018 by 2 Comments
The best way a grandparent, family member, or friend can help a child with math is valuing math and showing a positive attitude. Sadly, about 50% of Americans are afflicted with a strong distaste for math. Unfortunately, developing math anxiety … [Read more...]
Dr. Cotter on Fractions
December 4, 2018 by 1 Comment
Fractions have a bad reputation in the world of arithmetic as being incomprehensible and unpredictable. Cartoons exploit this fear of fractions for amusement. Believe or not, it’s all a huge misunderstanding. Fractions are necessary and amazing. They … [Read more...]
