One of the most basic math skills is counting. There are lots of ways in which parents can help children with this skill. When out and about, choose an object and have your child count how many of that object she can see. For example, when in the car, count how many red cars go past. When putting away groceries, count how many cans go in the cupboard. Count out an equal number of sweets or cookies for everyone. There are lots of books of songs and rhymes available for sharing with your child. Try "This Old Man" by Carol Jones, Merle Peek's "Roll Over! A Counting Song" or "Counting Songs (Fun Songs for Early Years)" by Jean Evans.
Be supportive. Praise and encouragement can go a long way in helping your child develop a positive attitude to math. Praise your child when he tries hard even if he doesn't always get it right. If your child is struggling, talk to him about his difficulties and work out a plan with him to help. Be patient and try not to get frustrated. Praise and reward every achievement, however small. Never mock or punish your child if he makes a mistake or doesn't understand something. If he is frightened to make mistakes because of your reaction, he may give up trying at all.
There are many free games available online that will enable your child to improve her math skills while having fun. Try the Scholastic or Discovery Education websites (see Resources). Just because a child is playing a game does not mean she isn't learning, so encourage the use of these games to revise and consolidate math knowledge. Children can be motivated by playing math games on computers and online, so use this motivation as a tool for reinforcing learning and building confidence. It is more fun if you play as well.
Talk to your child's teacher. Make sure you know what is going on with your child's learning. If you are not sure of something, you will not be able to help your child, so don't be afraid to ask for clarification. Many methods taught in math have changed since you were in school, so the chances are your child is learning to divide, multiply and add in a different way from how you were taught. Trying to teach your child your method will only confuse him. Find out whether your child's school runs information sessions to show parents what math methods are being used in school. If you can't attend these sessions, ask his teacher to run through things with you. Of course, if you are worried that your child has an underlying learning difficulty that is making it more difficult for him to learn math, talk to school officials about your concerns.