Math isn't just something students learn in school, it's part of our everyday lives! From figuring out how much something costs to measuring ingredients for a recipe or planning a schedule, math shows up more often than we think. And the best part? Anyone can get better at math with practice and encouragement.
As a parent or caregiver, you don't have to be a math expert to support your child. One simple way to help is by finding “math moments” in your daily routines. At the grocery store, children can compare prices, add up totals, or figure out how much they'll save with a sale. At home, they can measure ingredients while cooking, count laundry items, or divide snacks equally. Even small moments like setting the table can become fun math practice!
Younger children (generally ages 4-10) benefit from quick math games—ask questions like “What's 7 + 2?” or “How many legs do three chairs have?” These short conversations help children become more fluent with numbers.
For older children (generally ages 11-18), it's a great time to connect math and real-world careers. Many exciting jobs use math daily—like video game design, engineering, construction, healthcare, and fashion design. Helping students explore current and potential career interests can show how math integrates into the world around them and the goals they may already have. Check out the Student Milestone for College and Career Readiness document to see where your child should be according to their grade level.
To learn what your child is studying in school, the Tennessee Department of Education provides helpful resources. The Best for All Central website shows what students are expected to learn in math from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Understanding the academic standards can help you feel more confident in supporting your child and asking questions about their learning.
It's also helpful to stay connected with your child's teacher. When families and schools work together, students do better. The Tennessee Department of Education created a guide to help parents and caregivers feel prepared for those important conversations. It includes sample questions and tips for working as a team with your child's teacher: parent and teacher guide: working together for student success
Math is all around us, and with a little creativity, you can help your child see it too. Whether you're solving problems in the kitchen, at the store, or in the car, your intentional conversations and awareness can build confidence and spark curiosity. With encouragement and everyday practice, every child can become strong in math and see how it connects to their future.