Understanding patterns is a basic math skill for children in pre-k. A pattern is a set of shapes or numbers that are repeated. Help kids describe and extend items in a pattern using an activity that includes toys such as small cars, blocks or beads. Tell your child that you are going to make a pattern, then lay out the toys in a repeating pattern such as blue block-red block-blue block-red block, etc. See if your child can guess what color comes next. Once the child has mastered this skill you can create more difficult patterns for her to do.
Engage all the senses and teach basic geometry to pre-k students with the "Let Them Eat Shapes" activity. This activity is prepared by cutting different food items (such as those for breakfast, lunch, dinner or snack) into different shapes. You can do a shape-themed day and serve only round foods such as round crackers, tortillas or cookies. You can also use cookie cutters in different shapes to cut other foods such as sandwiches. While your child is eating, discuss the shape of the day and if she sees how the food she is eating is that shape.
Measurement is another important math skill for pre-k children to learn. Send children on a scavenger hunt armed with a notebook and ruler. Have them measure items around the room such as a book, door or window. Be sure to have them measure both length and width. An adult or helper can assist them in writing down their measurements.
Help to develop number and math skills in young children by having them do basic problem solving with coins. Show and describe each part of the coins (have one of each type) including color, who is on the front, what each is worth, etc. Then put one coin out of sight and tell the kids you are thinking of what it is. Give them hints such as color or "the coin I'm thinking of has a man's face on one side," etc. Keep giving clues until the children figure it out.