Why is my child learning multiple strategies?

As it turns out, there isn’t always one best way to solve a given problem. Mathematics problems may be approached in many different ways; there is value in allowing children to explore and contrast a variety of ways to solve problems. The goal is to expose children to multiple problem-solving strategies and to build deep and flexible mathematical knowledge. Students should not only think about what works in mathematics but also how and why things work. With a repertoire of strategies at their disposal, children may choose a strategy based on the numbers in a problem, the efficiency of the strategy and / or to double check their work a different way. A variety of methods affords students the opportunity to recognize the beauty and creativity in mathematics. 

       Adapted from Usable Knowledge Harvard Graduate School of Education & The Math Learning Center