APPENDIX 1: Parents and the Schools

Here are a few ideas that might help you support a positive math environment in your child's school:

1. Visit the school and see if the children:

* Are actively engaged in math;

* Are talking about mathematics;

* Are working together to solve math problems;

* Have their math work on display;

* Use manipulative (objects that children can touch and move) in the classroom.


2. Explore the math program with your child's teacher or head. Here are some questions you might ask:

* Are there manipulate able objects in the classroom?

* How are the national curriculum standards being applied in this school?

* What can I do to help foster a strong math program where children an explore math concepts before giving the right answer?

3. If you would like to help out, here are some suggestions for parent groups:

* Make games for teachers;

* Help seek out sponsors who believe in a strong math program for the school and who might provide materials and resources;
* Support math classes for families at your school.

4. Keep a positive attitude even if you don't like what you see. Work to improve the math curriculum by doing some of the things mentioned throughout this book.
5. Share this book with your child's teacher.