Our approach to math instruction is grounded in allowing children to actively explore and make sense of the world around them; it’s not simply about the rote learning of discrete facts like how much 42 + 19 equals. These mathematical ideas emerge as children notice patterns, relationships, and strategies through repeated opportunities, and we know that playing purposeful math games is a great way to provide these repeated opportunities in a fun and engaging way. The second grade team has, therefore, curated several math games that promise to be engaging, purposeful, and easy to play at home! By playing these games often with your child, you are helping to develop and practice math skills that are an essential part of second grade, and since the math is embedded in the structure and play of the game, children get lots of practice by just playing!
For all games, feel free to modify the rules to best work for you and your child(ren), as well as your time limits and available resources. There is no one right way to play these games.