When I teach, I always look for manipulatives, which are hands on materials, that would enhance the topic I am teaching as well as provide some type of independent learning. With Smart Blocks you receive both! I love that the blocks can be used for mathematics, as well as reading, writing, spelling, and grammar. Lovely, isn't it?
First thing is first - If your child likes to stick random things in his/her mouth be aware that these are small enough to choke on. Break them of that habit before they come to school - no one likes a kid who eat random stuff and ruins it for everyone.
If you were to get these great at-home/classroom tools, I would recommend you to use them for the following topics:
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| She created a great equation! |
- Match the numbers on the number line
- Pick a number block and count that many in snacks - like peanuts or M & M's
- Subtraction problems
- Addition problems
- Create math equations (with a + or - and an =) and type them in the calculator
- Copy numbers or letters down
- Trace letters/numbers
- Letter of the day focus
- Allow the child to just play! Play is the beginning of independence and self-confidence!
If you create a problem or word and your son/daughter does not understand, NEVER use negative words - always say "That's a good start! Lets try this ..." Enthusiasm is the key when you are beginning to teach any topic. For any parent or teacher, it is easy to become frustrated when teaching a topic that is new or even old to a child. When you and your child become frustrated, at the work or with one another, it is best to take a deep breath and TALK IT OUT. One of my students favorite learning methods is by watching and listening to me talk it out. Sometimes, even with high school students, I write a word several times to decide if it is correct - even if you already know the spelling it shows them it is fine to make mistakes! So when you are working on the addition problem that was created and the traditional lined up numbers does not work, try drawing pictures to match what the problem is. The same for subtraction, just color, circle, or cross out the number you are subtracting! The only problem I had with these blocks were they were a bit smaller than the typical blocks I used.
I have always used Snap Cubes, which is pictures to the left, but we counted them, sorted by colors, made into 10s, subtracted and added to them, etc. Of course they cost a lot more money and do not have letters and/or numbers on them! If you want to get your own set just visit
Remember, learning should always be fun!
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