Learning Maths Naturally

What we do in daily life determines what maths we use and learn. The more we use our mathematical abilities the more we learn! If our lives are rich in opportunities to think mathematically, logically, rationally, recognise and use the patterns that are all about us every day; if we use our brains to calculate, and work out how to calculate mostly by thinking about how to do it, testing and trying out methods we dream up...

All this adds up to learning maths naturally and it is surprising how much we can learn without the help of others. Remember, once upon a time there were no books and that humanity came a long way without them!

Most of the maths we use is every day maths... those that use 'higher' maths are naturally drawn to learning those skills - originally from mentors and those they admired and wished to emulate, or as apprentices (working on the job, figuring out stuff because of a real need, rather than a 'curriculum' requirement. A text book can be a most suitable tutor. Natural learners use the tools they need to reach the goals they themselves set.

A busy life with lots to do, with a focus on practical projects and production basically ensures the development of natural maths skills. Most children will never become mathematicians, just like some children won't become authors or orators. We all need the basics though. Ask yourself what those basics are and concentrate on helping your children achieve mathematical proficiency in those areas through every day activities and then, when they reach the teenage years let them take their own learning on from there.

But exactly how to children learn maths skills naturally without text books - what does the process of learning look like? We all know our children seem to simply 'pick up' basic maths just from every day activities, but what goes on in their heads. I think it has a lot to do with recognising, manipulating and using patterns, but I'm no expert and I'm curious. What do other people think? Is it just a matter or leading a busy productive life which is what I keep telling people, or is there more to it than that?

love and peace to you all,
Beverley
www.alwayslearningbooks.com.au
http://homeschoolaustralia.beverleypaine.com