Many everyday activities involve math and are adaptable to the classroom. Cooking is a prime example of how children can use math in a real-life situation. The kids must read the fractions and measurements before actually measuring out the ingredients. Weighing objects on a scale is an interactive, real-life way to practice weights and measuring. A pretend store set up in the classroom gives students a chance to shop, reinforcing money concepts. Review the concepts you're teaching in math to determine how you are able to relate them to everyday life.
Word problems related to the math concepts you are teaching help children apply the skills. Instead of a sheet of written word problems, pose a question or problem to the class to solve. Using objects to help solve the problems makes the activity more hands-on for the students. For example, ask the students how many blocks it would take to cover the doorway in the classroom. They use estimation and measurement to figure out the number required. They also can use actual blocks to help solve the problem.
Another way to actively engage the students in math learning is to integrate math into other subject areas. Math and art work well together in various forms. For example, when young children are learning about various types of geometric shapes, use those shapes to create a collage or other piece of artwork. Children's books that discuss mathematical concepts allow you to integrate math and reading. To integrate math and science, let the kids explore various real-life structures such as types of bridges. Have the kids construct their own scaled versions using materials such as dry spaghetti noodles and marshmallows. For a health class connection, have students calculate nutrition information for various recipes or serving sizes.
Present the engaging math activities in a variety of formats to keep the kids interested. Math learning centers work well for the activities because the students are able to work in small groups or individually. Place all necessary materials in a plastic bag with instructions. This allows the kids to work on the activities independently at the math center. Another option is to use the activities as the main activities during math class. Present the concept to the whole class before dividing students into smaller groups to work on it.