See it
Use objects, a drawing or a number line to represent an idea. What does the quantity look like? What changes when you add, remove or share?
PRIMARY MATHEMATICS
Little steps.
Clearer thinking.
Maths becomes more approachable when children can see what a number means, explain a method and connect a problem to something familiar.
Explain it
Ask “How did you work it out?” A child’s explanation can reveal a sound idea or a misunderstanding that an answer alone does not show.
Use it
Try the same idea in another situation. Can your child recognise when a method is useful, rather than only repeat a familiar question?
AREAS TO EXPLORE
Strong number sense.
Useful problem-solving.
Counting & place value
Understanding quantity, number order and the value of a digit creates a foundation for calculation. Revisit these ideas with objects and drawings when needed.
The four operations
Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are connected. Exploring the relationship between them can help children check an answer and choose a method.
Fractions & measures
Sharing, comparing and measuring bring abstract ideas into everyday life. Talk about equal parts, units, length, time and money in practical situations.
Reasoning & word problems
Before calculating, identify what the question is asking, what information matters and how the quantities are related. A simple sketch can help.
TRY A LITTLE MATHS
One problem.
More than one way.
There are 24 pencils. They are shared equally between 6 pots. How many pencils go in each pot?
Show your thinking
Draw six circles for the pots. Share 24 marks between them. Or think: which number multiplied by 6 gives 24?
Reveal the answer and a check
4 pencils go in each pot. Check: 6 × 4 = 24. Another way is 24 ÷ 6 = 4.
Now change something
What if there were 3 pots? What if each of the 6 pots needed one more pencil? Explain what changes before doing the calculation.
Explore the extension
With 3 equal pots, each holds 8 pencils. If all 6 pots need 5 pencils each, there must be 30 pencils: 6 more than before.
MATHS IN THE EVERYDAY
It starts with
“I wonder…”
How much change should we get? Which container holds more? How many minutes until we leave? Everyday questions give children a reason to estimate, calculate and explain.
If a method at school looks unfamiliar, ask your child to demonstrate it or check with their teacher. Keeping explanations consistent can make practice less confusing.
When your child gets stuck
- Read the question together.
- Ask what is known and what needs finding.
- Draw or model the situation.
- Try a smaller or simpler example.
- Check whether the answer is reasonable.
Interested in maths support? Email Liz to discuss your child’s needs, the right learning focus and current session availability.
USEFUL READING
Parent guidance reviewed 22 October 2026. Activities on this page are original examples for this website.