Mommy Ginger
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5 Awesome Small Business Ideas You Can Start Quickly In 2019

More women are now leaving their jobs in the corporate world in exchange for raising a family. And while this is a decision that they whole-heartedly made, most moms are still on the lookout for small business ideas for extra income and of course, for self-fulfilment.

Thankfully, there are already a lot of small business ideas that let you have total control of your time and resources. And with today’s technology and connectivity, opportunities to put up a business have become limitless.

As an entrepreneur, I get asked questions about the best small business ideas almost all the time. Most of those who ask me are moms, too, so today, I decided to list down five of the best business ventures stay-at-home-moms can start in a jiffy.

Here we go!

Business Idea # 1: Consultation Services for Analytical Moms

In the past, consultants equate to high-level data processing for huge businesses. But today, consultants can refer to anyone that has a special set of skills.

And it’s not limited to business.

We now have beauty consultants, health, and wellness consultants, and even personal coaches.

So what qualifications or certifications do you need to become one?

Truth is, certifications will depend on the expertise that you offer.

For example, certifications from previous work is a plus for business consultancy. You can present certificates on project management or business analysis. You can also use licenses for supply chain management or business planning.

Your years of experience can also attest to your expertise as a consultant. You can create a portfolio to showcase your skills and the clients that you have worked with in the past. Make a note of all your skills and services you can provide, I would suggest using a Journal from Jofelo as it’s one of the best.

Here are some examples of skills and services you can offer consultancy for:

  • Accounting
  • Advertising
  • Auditing
  • Career counseling
  • Communications
  • Business Consulting
  • Editorial Services
  • Insurance
  • Marketing
  • Writing
  • Beauty
  • Self-care
  • Finance
  • Health and Wellness
  • Fashion Stylist
  • Events Management

Business Idea # 2: Food Services for the Foodie Mom

Filipinos are foodies by heart, and our meals are more than just for nourishment. And today, we are becoming more experimental with tastes and textures.

That’s why it’s a pretty good time for foodie moms to share their tried and tested recipes with others.

Food entrepreneurs can now choose from different delivery options to get their products to customers. While having a good location still matters, it is no longer a limitation when it comes to great food.

Food carts and food hubs have offered food entrepreneurs more venues to offer their unique tastes. Weekly meal plans and other specialized diets can now be delivered door to door.

This solves a much greater dilemma for the growing crowd who are too busy to prepare healthy and great-tasting meals.

Get more tips on how to start your food business from Tycoon.ph here.

Business Idea # 3: Essential Oils for the Holistic Mom

Essential oils have been in use even way before the rise of modern medicine. Ancient civilizations have used essential oils for healing.

And it’s only today that this practice is being revived.

So why are essential oils a good business for moms?

A recent search on Google Trends shows that the search for essential oils has increased over the past year. As you can see in the image below, more people are becoming interested in learning more about how essential oils can make their lives better.

You have two ways of selling essential oils. One is to create your own blends and sell them under your brand, or source them and resell them online.

Some oils can be used as rollers for instant application throughout the day. Others can be bottled for diffusers or for creating personal blends.

You can also sell popular brands like Plant Therapy, Young Living, and dOTTERA oils.

But what’s most important is to learn more about essential oils and its uses before you make it a business. This will help you recommend the best oils to use for ailments and situations.

If you’d like to learn more about essential oils, check out Essentially KP.

Business Idea # 4: Online Store for the Shopaholic Mom

If you’re a gadget geek, a shopaholic, or a mom who knows how to make great finds, then an online shop can be an awesome business for you.

Mobile marketing is one of the biggest trends today. With all the available apps like Shoppee, Lazada, and OLX, it’s now easier to sell products and services to your target market.

Even Facebook has created Marketplace, where you can sell your products to different people at different locations.

So what can you sell online? Virtually everything you can think of.

Now you can find mobile devices, clothes, beauty products, food product, gadgets, and other stuff with just a tap of a button. And it’s also easy to sell because of the popularity of these apps.

If you have a bigger budget or want to sell in higher volumes, you can even do dropshipping and e-commerce stores. But if you go down this route, you will need to expand your operation to take into account ways to take orders online and merchant services so people are paying securely. E-commerce is a very popular approach to selling items, but every small business can be undone by numerous online threats, such as hackers. It pays to invest in the best equipment to ensure the safety and longevity of your company. 

Want to learn more about how to start your own online store business? Watch out for our upcoming workshops at Manila Workshops (http://manilaworkshops.com/events)

Business Idea # 5: Learning Centers for the Number-savvy Mom

If you love teaching kids, then setting up a learning center may be the best option for you.

I’ve been toying about this business idea for a while now. I’ve been tutoring Zeeka a lot recently and I was thinking of accepting other kids for tutorial sessions in the afternoon.

It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. I get to earn extra, and Zeeka also gets to have playdates after the session is done.

But if you want to take it up a level higher, you can open up a tutorial center, a daycare, or even franchise your own Math and Reading centers.

Zeeka has been trying out S.A.M. Singapore Math and she enjoys it. Ever since we started, it’s been easier for her to see patterns and understand equations better. But most of all, doing the program helped her improve her analytical skills.

Read more about our S.A.M Singapore Math experience here.

Now the good thing about this is, S.A.M Singapore Math also offers franchise opportunities for anyone who loves to teach and want to make a difference in children’s lives.

Check out this video to learn more about how you can start your own S.A.M Singapore Math Center today:

https://youtu.be/eJVQX8JFdHs

Now what’s awesome with a franchise business is that you’re not in it alone.

Franchises have a higher success rate compared to starting up your own. Instead, you get all the support and assistance you need to make the business a success.

You will get access to programs and training, marketing assistance, and even get help in choosing the best location to put up your business. This saves you a huge amount of time and effort, especially if it’s your first time pursuing a business.

Here’s what you need to become a S.A.M. Singapore Math Instructor:

    • Passionate about children and education
    • Love for children, and share a genuine passion for educating young minds
    • Degree holder in any discipline or professional qualification
    • Excellent English skills, and have fair knowledge in Maths
    • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
    • Full-time dedication and commitment
    • Able to invest a minimum of P680,000 in order to start a SAM center or have a Tutorial Centre that does not offer Mathematics curriculum.

For inquiries on how to become a S.A.M Singapore Math franchisee, visit their website here.

There are many reasons why mothers make awesome business women.

We’re so used to handling so many things in different things at the same time. We’re awesome at budgeting and making ends meet. We are so good at choosing the best products for our kids and selling them to our mommy friends. Amiga marketing at its finest!

But most of all, we women have the strength, the wits, and the ability to maximize our full potential in any way we see fit.

So go ahead and start your small business idea today! And I’ll be here to cheer you on.

Do you have any tips on how you successfully started own small business ideas? Let us know in the comments below.

How to Raise Independent Learners

I remember going to a parent-teachers meeting in Zeeka’s school. They asked us, parents, what our parenting objectives are. My husband and I shared that we want Zeeka to be an independent and confident adult in the future, capable of making her own decisions. We want her to learn and eventually exhibit the values that we believe in.

I think every parent wants to raise independent learners. I know we want our kids to grow and thrive so they could live the life they want.

The demand for problem-solving and critical thinking skills are much higher today than it was before. Because of new discoveries and innovations in technology, new businesses and careers are required to fill the gap. That’s why I try to give Zeeka as much support and opportunities as I can while she’s growing up.

So I did a quick research to know what skills and traits one should have to be called an independent learner and here’s what I found.

Characteristics of an Independent Learner

– Independent learners are naturally curious and explorative of their surroundings. They love learning from different angles and approaches
– Independent learners are motivated by personal goals they set for themselves.
– Independent learners know how to evaluate themselves fairly.
– Independent learners are responsible and remain accountable for their tasks. They also do it out of need without anyone telling them what to do.
– Independent learners are critical thinkers who examine possibilities and come up with multiple solutions to a problem
– Independent learners also have an uncanny way of learning. They read, visualize, or kinaesthetically instruct themselves and require little or no instructions from adults.
– Independent learners are also persistent. They don’t give up easily even if the tasks seem impossible.

So how do we raise our kids to be independent learners? Here are some tips

1. Build their confidence.

Self-esteem is a characteristic of an independent learner that you can nurture through acceptance, support, and love.

As parents, you need to recognize your kid’s talents and give praise when it is due. But be sure to be realistic with the praise and not let it get to their heads.

It’s also important to let them know it’s ok to be silly at times and not to take yourself too seriously.

Let kids experience failure so they know it’s part of the process. Kids need to understand that every mistake can be turned into an opportunity to learn from. What’s important is how they are willing to adapt and make necessary changes to correct their mistakes.

2. Create opportunities for independence.

I have the tendency to look at my little girl as if she’s always going to be my baby. I guess that’s just normal for every parent.

I mean, kids do grow up too fast. And I’m also so lucky to get to witness Zeeka grow up before my eyes.

But I also know that I won’t always be there to help her. So I try as much as I could to present her with opportunities where she can learn on her own.

I give her small tasks at home that she can do by herself, like packing her toys away or choosing what to wear for the day. I also ask her to help around the house. Even if we have a helper, I let her set up our table when it’s time to eat. I also require her to eat by herself.

These might menial, but it helps strengthen her motor skills and build her character. It also makes her aware of what responsibilities are and gives her a sense of accomplishment every time she completes a task.

3. Nurture your child’s interests and help them set realistic goals.

My little Zeeka is quite a performer. She can be shy and timid at first, but when she gets her groove on she can be such a ball of energy.

She loves being in front of the camera. She even told me she wanted to have her own talk show someday, like Ellen.

Here she is doing her version of Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman.

Here she is looking so kikay when we visited Lady Kitty’s house at Sanrio Puro Land.

That’s why I look for different events and workshops where she can showcase her talents. Last summer, I enrolled her in a dance camp for kids and she absolutely loved it! She even has her own Youtube channel where she gets to talk about her toys, makeup, and other things she loves.

Check out her KinderJoy Egg Surprise Review here:

4. Don’t interrupt.

Kids learn things best when they figure it out on their own. Sometimes, their methods may not be what we expect. And as adults, we also need to let them be and learn how to deal with it.

Case in point.

If kids ask for opportunities to help or work on their own, don’t interrupt. But make sure to be there when they need some guidance. Don’t dismiss them or ignore them when they have questions.

It also helps to have a “no spoon-feeding rule” at home. In case they can’t figure it out, you can point them in the right direction. What’s more important is their desire to give things a try.

5. Encourage the love of books and math.

Reading books introduce us to different concepts and ideas. And in turn, it also feeds our minds and makes us more creative. It also expands our vocabulary, improves our communication skills and our memory.

Reading also enriches our analytical skills and enhances our decision-making. It also stimulates our mental capacities and improves focus and concentration.

Much like reading, Mathematics is a mental exercise that helps develop critical thinking skills and independent learning. It is all about making connections and seeing patterns and builds our concrete and abstract thinking abilities.

Research shows that Mathematics trains the brains to see connections and build neural pathways that increase the brain’s power.

Here are some of the brain’s response when doing Maths according to Creation.com:

  • It creates the basis for systemic thinking
  • Develops analysis and problem-solving skills
  • Helps build critical sequencing skills that help one arrive at accurate results or logical conclusions
  • Promotes cautious thinking through deciphering complex math problems to arrive at an accurate answer.
  • Learning to integrate different principles by a trial and error basis to come to a logical conclusion

One way to build your kid’s independence is to enrol them in Math enrichment programs such as S.A.M. Singapore Math.

Seriously Addictive Mathematics Philippines or S.A.M. makes it fun and easy for kids to learn Math. Students get to learn Mathematics through play, using toys, tools, and manipulatives. This makes it easy for students, especially the younger ones, to understand mathematical concepts and increases their comprehension levels.

You can get to know more about S.A.M. Singapore Math here. SAM Singapore Math: What You Need to Know About

Raising independent learners can be easier with the right type of tools and a community supports you along the way.

So if you have any tips on how to raise independent learners, please do share them with us in the comments below.

Love Lots,
Ginger

P.S.

If you want to try SAM Philippines, here’s a 15% discount for you!

To avail of the discount:
Register via SMS/Text by sending: PD15 / Parent’s Name / Mobile No. / Email / City of nearest SAM branch to 0917-5826867
Wait for the reply with the 6 digit code and save it.
Show the 6 digit code at the SAM branch upon enrolment

Terms and Conditions:

  • To avail of the 15%, register to the Promo Discount
  • Show SAM center the 6-digit code from the reply text of SAM Head Office
  • 15% off is to be applied on the first month of tuition fee only.
  • 6-Digit code is unique and is assigned by SAM head office
  • Only non-SAM students can avail of the 15% discount.
  • Promo discount is valid from Aug. 27, 2018 to Feb. 28, 2019 only.

How to Use the CPA Approach to Help Kids Learn Math Better

Did you know that using the CPA approach can help kids learn Math better and faster?

I first heard about the CPA approach when I was doing my research about Seriously Addictive Mathematics, and it was definitely an eye-opener.

My close friends would know how much I love learning new things. And as a mom, I want Zeeka to also have the same love of learning as I do.

Now that she’s in school, one of my priorities is for her to enjoy learning, especially Math. But because math is an abstract subject, it can get difficult for kids like her to understand the concepts behind it. I’m lucky though that ever since Zeeka was a little, she loved counting more than singing her ABCs.

To make mathematical concepts more concrete, the Singapore Ministry of Education devised a learning program that uses the CPA approach. They then applied it to what we now know as Singapore Math for kids. I have been noticing a lot of improvement from Zeeka, so I decided to share with you what the CPA approach is (based on my research).

CPA Approach Explained

Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract Approach (CPA) was a concept derived from American Psychologist Jerome Bruner.

It is based on a theory of instructions proposed by Bruner in his book, Towards a Theory of Instruction. The idea comes from enactive, iconic, and symbolic modes of representations, and was later on adopted by the Singapore Ministry of Education as its key instructional strategy.

Bruner believed that students learn best by doing. In this approach, students learn by using manipulatives to learn mathematical concepts and skills. Students get the chance to explore, discuss, and understand the problem first hand. Instructors, on the other hand, facilitate and provide structure and feedback to students and increase the depth of understanding for the students.

How Singapore Math for Kids Use the CPA Approach

The approach has three stages: (https://mathsnoproblem.com/en/the-maths/teaching-methods/concrete-pictorial-abstract/)

 

  • Concrete Stage – This stage lets students manipulate concrete objects to model problems. Unlike traditional processes, the CPA approach brings the concept to life and allows students to handle and experience the objects and make sense of the problem at hand.

 

Credits to www.mathsnoproblem.com

 

 

  • Pictorial Stage -This refers to the seeing stage, where images are used to represent objects to solve a math problem. It lets the students make a mental connection between the concrete object and the models that represent the problem.

 

 

  • Abstract/ Symbolic Stage – This stage lets the students connect the previous stages to the abstract symbols to model the problem. It also involves the teacher introducing abstract concepts using numbers and symbols.

 

 

Using this process ensures that the child gets a deeper understanding of how problem-solving works. It also helps children create powerful mental connections and provides them with a structured way to learn concepts.

Most importantly, kids also get to learn at their own pace. With enough support from certified trainers, students get a fun and effective way to learn Math.

That’s what makes Singapore Math for kids awesome.

 

How to Use the CPA Approach at Home

So how can we parents use the CPA approach to prepare our kids for learning Math?

I went to Pinterest to look for simple, easy-to-do learning games we can play with our kids. And here are some we can use the materials we already have at home.

 

 

  • Lego Blocks

 

Lego blocks have huge intrinsic educational and creative value. But more than that, children can also build their spatial and proportional awareness through these toys.

They also help increase your kid’s gross and fine motor skills. And in advance situations, high school and college students can also use advanced Lego kits for robotics, computer programming, modeling, and more.

So how can you use blocks to introduce counting to your preschooler?

Draw numerals and dots on Lego Duplo blocks and help kids recognize numbers. You can even use the blocks as a measuring tool.

For more Lego ideas, you can check out this post from TheImaginationTree.com.

 

 

  • Playdough

 

Playdough is soft, fun, and can be changed into whatever shape we want. And this makes it an awesome toy/tool to use for teaching our kids math.

You can form it and shape it to numbers and dots.

You can hide small toys in them and do a mini-treasure hunt while counting how many they got.

You can also cut it into and use it to demonstrate fractions for older kids to understand.  

Watch this video to see ten more ways you can use playdough to learn math from DeniseGaskins.com.

  • Popsicle sticks

Popsicle sticks are a creative way to help kids identify numbers.

All you need are 20 popsicle sticks and a few colored markers. Number each stick from 1 to 10 in bold, black letters. Then make designs on the remaining sticks with corresponding numbers using different shapes and colors.

Once done, you can ask your child to match the sticks with the corresponding numbers, and even ask about the different shapes and colors on the sticks.

Texture Sequencing Sticks

Be creative! Use envelopes or glasses to count, or fruit loops and other items to create different patterns. You can also add in symbols to create simple equations for older kids.

Your imagination is your limit!

 

If you want to learn more about CPA approach and Singapore Math for kids, you can check out the nearest  Seriously Addictive Mathematics Philippines center near you.

Here’s a little something for you!

To avail of the discount:

  1. Register via SMS/Text by sending: PD15 / Parent’s Name / Mobile No. / Email / City of nearest SAM branch to 0917-5826867
  2. Wait for the reply with the 6 digit code and save it.
  3. Show the 6 digit code at the SAM branch upon enrolment.

*Terms and Conditions:

  1. To avail of the 15%, register to the Promo Discount
  2. Show SAM center the 6-digit code from the reply text of SAM Head Office
  3. 15% off is to be applied on the first month of tuition fee only.
  4. 6-Digit code is unique and is assigned by SAM head office
  5. Only non-SAM students can avail of the 15% discount.
  6. Promo discount is valid from Aug. 27, 2018 to Feb. 28, 2019 only.

Hope you like this article about the CPA approach! Have you ever heard of this? What do you think of it?

Five Ways to Improve your Kid’s Critical Thinking Skills

Building your kid’s critical thinking skills today can be the key to ensuring his bright future. And I can attest to that! I’ve seen a lot of successful people in the industry who have achieved what they have accomplished because of critical thinking skills. It’s no wonder that this is one of the things that is being taught in the Seriously Addictive Mathematics classes of Zeeka.

In just a few years, job descriptions and requirements have changed. I couldn’t imagine how fast things will change in the years to come. The question is, how do we prepare our kids for what’s ahead? How do we ensure their competitive edge when the time comes?

It’s just normal for us, parents, to get worried about these things. That’s why we do our best to send our kids to school and enrich them with experiences that will help them prepare for real life.

But first, let’s define what critical thinking skills are, and how conceptual understanding skills play a role in it.

What are Critical Thinking Skills?

Critical thinking skills are defined as a set of skills that lets you observe, experience, and analyze information to establish its integrity. It is our ability to engage in reflective and independent thinking and our response as an active learner rather than a passive observer.

These skills vary in levels, but also include the following:

– The ability to observe, analyze, and interpret topics in an objective and critical way
– Reflect, evaluate, and infer different arguments and angles in relation to a particular topic or issue
– Analyze and evaluate a point of view to determine its validity and strength
– Recognize negative points in an argument
– Ability to infer and predict implications of statements or arguments
– Explain and provide a structured reasoning and support for an argument
– Ability to solve problems and decision making

Critical thinking skills are the most sought-after skills in business today. People who have critical thinking skills can be a strong asset to any organization. These people are great communicators, fair leaders, and brilliant strategists that earn well and live purposeful, meaningful lives.

Sounds too good to be true? Definitely not.

As an entrepreneur, I get to be a part of different local and international communities. And every day, I get to meet awesome people who live amazing lives.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying that these folks don’t ever have problems. It’s just that they respond better to challenges and find the best solutions to make things better. That’s how I imagine my child would be like in the future. And it’s the reason why I choose to invest in Zeeka today so she could get to have the life she wants.

Today, I’m sharing some tips on how I help Zeeka improve her critical thinking skills. Most of these things are pretty simple, doable things you can do every day. Some of them are worthy investments I make to ensure her future.

How to Improve your Child’s Critical Thinking Skills

1. Read to them and ask questions.

Do you agree that reading is the key to success? 🙂

Reading is actually equivalent to flexing the muscles in your brain. Every time you read, your brain creates different connections and responses, enriching your critical thinking. You get exposed to different ideas, travel to different places, and even change the way you see things with just books.

Reading also increases empathy and emotional intelligence. Stories help kids learn more about other people’s situations and recognize emotional cues. This helps them respond properly and learn more about human interactions.

This is why I invest in storybooks and read bedtime stories with Zeeka as much as I can. I also ask her questions about what she thinks and even let her tell her own stories through the pictures in the books.

Pro Tip: Kids learn through imitation so make sure you also read regularly at home. Kids who see their parents reading have higher chances of picking up books themselves.

You also don’t have to spend big bucks on books. But make sure to get topics that your kids are interested in, like dinosaurs and spaceships.

 

2. Let them play.

Children learn best through play. It reduces stress, improves balance, enriches cognitive skills and contributes to their social and literacy skills.

While it looks simple and complex, play is actually a form of expression that helps kids develop their imagination, dexterity, and emotional strength. It is through play that children make sense of the world around them. It also strengthens their immune system and also develops self-confidence and self-esteem.

It is recommended for parents to spend at least 15-20 minutes a day playing with their kids. Not only does it build your relationship with kids, it also gives you a chance to see the world through their kids’ eyes.

Pro Tip: Let your kids take the lead when you’re playing. As much as possible, don’t impose rigid rules especially on younger kids. Let them explore different materials and let them be creative with their play. As your kids grow older, you can introduce more structured games to help kids practice understanding and applying strategies and decision making.

3. Encourage them to try new things.

Children are naturally curious, and most of them learn through trial and error. And as parents, it’s important for us to encourage them as they go through this learning process.

It’s also an awesome opportunity for us to teach kids about life skills. Challenges are bound to arise, and children can be frustrated when encountering them. With proper guidance and processing, facing these challenges can teach them the value of resilience and courage.

Pro Tip: Kids need to know that they’re safe before they try new things. Strengthen their sense of security on a daily basis by making time for them regularly and paying attention every time. Assure them that mistakes are OK, and encourage them to find solutions to these errors.

4. Pause and wait.

As much as we love our kids, it’s also important for them to learn how to be independent.

Research shows that kids who are given tasks and responsibilities at home grow up to be more successful. They also need to have the chance to learn things and process their emotions on their own.

Yes, it does hurt when we see them cry when they’re frustrated or hurt. But we also need to understand that we won’t always be there to fix things for them.

Giving them the chance to do things on their own will benefit them in the long run and also help them become holistically stronger.

Pro Tip: Get a list of chores your kids can do and assign it to them. Here’s a quick guide of tasks according to age group and abilities.

5. Teach kids to love mathematics

Kids usually find Math difficult to understand because of its abstract nature. The good thing is, there are existing supplemental Math programs that make it easier for kids to understand.

S.A.M Singapore Math let kids learn Mathematics the fun way. With tools and strategies that encourage self-learning, kids of all ages get to learn more than the traditional processes.

Students of the method increase its students’ conceptual understanding. This means children get to grasp ideas and concepts and apply it to different situations and domains.

Solving problems can get frustrating. But this level of frustration can always be a good thing especially if it builds character and grit. As kids solve more problems, their self-esteem grows. It makes them more open to ideas and more confident to face the challenges that come their way.

Pro Tip: Enroll your kids in supplementary education programs like S.A.M Singapore Math to improve their critical thinking skills. Because there is no spoon feeding in S.A.M Singapore Math, kids learn independent thinking and life skills.

If you’d like to know more about S.A.M. Singapore Math, visit the website here.

And here’s a surprise!

To avail of the discount:

  1. Register via SMS/Text by sending: PD15 / Parent’s Name / Mobile No. / Email / City of nearest SAM branch to 0917-5826867
  2. Wait for the reply with the 6 digit code and save it.
  3. Show the 6 digit code at the SAM branch upon enrolment.

*Terms and Conditions:

  1. To avail of the 15%, register to the Promo Discount
  2. Show SAM center the 6-digit code from the reply text of SAM Head Office
  3. 15% off is to be applied on the first month of tuition fee only.
  4. 6-Digit code is unique and is assigned by SAM head office
  5. Only non-SAM students can avail of the 15% discount.
  6. Promo discount is valid from Aug. 27, 2018 to Feb. 28, 2019 only.

Build your kid’s critical thinking skills with these tips! Or better yet, share more tips with us in the comments section below. 🙂

Love lots,

 

Get Kids to Enjoy Problem Solving in Math with These Tricks

I never could figure out how a rubix cube works. Apparently, Justin Bieber is good at it (I just saw a video of him solving a rubix cube puzzle. Problem solving in Math (like solving a rubix cube puzzle) is a necessary skill we all need every day. Apart from rubix cubes, there are tons of mathematical problems we encounter on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, most kids hate math, and most adults, too. Mathematics and I never had a great relationship until I was 26 years old. When I was younger, I hated Math. Later in life, I realized that I needed it.

From horror teachers to bad test scores, Mathematics has somewhat become a measurement of intelligence. Let’s admit it. When someone says they’re good in Math, we automatically think that he/she is a smart! This perception by many may have caused to lower some kids’ self-esteem, which they may have brought into their adulthood.

Early on, I want to teach Zeeka that  Mathematics and problem-solving is fun! In order to do that, I went on to look for common reasons why people dislike Math. Here are the things that I found.

Solving problems can be frustrating for them.

Schools follow a curriculum that doesn’t follow everyone’s timeline. This means teachers teach Mathematics, give tests and reviews, and grade students according to their lesson plan schedule and not according to the kid’s current skills.

Every kid has a different speed and level of understanding. Most kids today have minimal mastery of arithmetics, especially multiplication and division. So it’s expected that they will also have a hard time when they reach higher levels of mathematics.

This lack of mastery can be frustrating. And so, they end up disliking the subject all the more.

Incomplete and incompetent instructions

Sometimes the challenge also lies in the way Mathematics is instructed to students. Most Math teachers also have a stigma that doesn’t help much.

The traditional way of teaching Maths is through blackboard and chalk, with teachers scribbling formulas on the board. I remember staring on the board trying to understand the equations only to find out I needed to copy it before it was erased. And it sucked not having the time to really get to understand what was being discussed.

There are also times when teachers don’t give full instructions. Some even expect students to know how to do the equation based on what the books say. This expectation can cause some kids to struggle.

The subject causes personal anxiety and embarrassment to some students

Most kids dread being called in front of the class to solve equations on the board. It’s embarrassing and nerve-wracking for some, especially when you don’t get the answer right.

And most of the time, the teachers are not as encouraging either. Most teachers get easily frustrated when kids don’t get the answer right away. This results in more anxiety for the students and creates a negative impact on the subject.

Students rarely see the value of Mathematics in their daily lives

For students, Mathematics only represent numbers and symbols. What they fail to realize and what we often forget to tell them is that Math is present in our daily lives.

The patience and the mental requirements needed in Mathematics make them better problem solvers and also increases their critical thinking skills. It helps them process real-life situations and challenges pragmatically and objectively.

Attitudes in Math greatly depend on how kids experience it for the first time, so I make sure Zeeka gets to maximize hers.

 

So here are some tips on how to make Math enjoyable for kids.

  1. Play puzzles and games

 

 

The best way for kids to enjoy Math is through play.

Puzzles are a good way to exercise a child’s logic. It introduces them to shapes, sizes, and correlation. It also helps kids improve their fine and gross motor skills and spatial abilities.

Make it fun by playing counting games or putting numbers on puzzles to help them learn about sequences and one-on-one counting.

You can check out this website for cool Math puzzles and games ideas to try with your little one.

   

  1. Never say you weren’t good in Math

Remember how mindset plays a strong role in how your kids will respond to Math. So don’t let them hear you say that you’re not good at it or if you dislike the subject.

It’s important to make them feel at ease when they’re solving problems. And it’s also vital for them to give it a try first and acquire a “never give up” attitude.

Also, be careful with how you talk about correcting mistakes.

The key to kids enjoying Math is to let them realize that they can have a do-over. Kids need to know that mistakes are normal and they can always correct them. Make sure to choose the words you use when giving instructions about corrections and always be patient.        

 

  1. Show them how to apply it in real life

Kids need to understand that Math is an inevitable part of life. And the best way to do it is to show them how it applies to everyday things.     

One of the best ways to show the value of Mathematics is by cooking or baking.

The actual process of baking can help kids understand the need to follow a step-by-step guide to get the desired outcome. Adding an ingredient too much, too little, or too soon can affect the end result.

Check out our baking session at Nobu Hotel! Zeeka and I definitely had fun while we had our cooking class.

https://mommyginger.com/staycation-at-nobu-hotel-and-family-bonding-at-dreamplay.html

Make it fun for them, especially for young kids. Count the cups and spoons you use or ask them to read out the recipe to you aloud. Teach them about halves and wholes while cutting. The best part of it is you get to have your cake and eat it too.

 

  1. Enroll them in Math enrichment centers

Math enrichment centers can help kids enjoy the subject with the help of the right level and well-trained supervision.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Children get to experience Mathematics to the fullest because they learn it according to their own pace. Teachers are also expertly trained to assess and recommend the right levels that will enhance their skills.

One of the best ways to experience Math is through Seriously Addictive Mathematics or SAM Singapore Math. I wrote about it here: https://mommyginger.com/seriously-addictive-mathematics-or-sam-singapore-math-what-you-need-to-know.html

SAM Singapore Math makes it fun and easy for kids to learn Math.

Students get to learn Mathematics through play, using toys, tools, and manipulatives. This makes it easy for students, especially the younger ones, to understand mathematical concepts. With this approach, no memorization in Math is needed. Students learn through discussions with trained and certified teachers and also improves their conceptual understanding skills through play. Unlike traditional math lessons from school, S.A.M. Singapore Math helps kids learn math through logic and understanding the ‘why’s’ before doing the ‘how’s’.

Problem solving in Math need not be difficult for kids. But with the right tools, certified trainers, and motivation, Math enrichment programs like S.A.M. Singapore Math can definitely be a good investment.

To learn more about SAM Singapore Math, visit their website here. You can also visit their Facebook Page to see what other moms and dads are saying about them.

Do you have any tips on how problem solving in Math fun for kids? Share them with us below.