Helping your child with math homework can feel tricky, especially when they first meet multiplication and division. In addition, you may hear about “new math” strategies and wonder why things look so different from when you were in school. One of the most common strategies used today is the area model. Rather than rushing straight to quick calculations, this method helps kids understand the process of multiplication and division. The idea is simple: break down numbers into smaller parts, then piece them back together.

Rational numbers might seem like a complicated, advanced topic in math, but kids run into them all the time. In activities like splitting a pizza evenly among friends, checking the score during a basketball game, or even measuring flour for cookies, children work with these numbers without realizing it. So, what are rational numbers? Essentially, they’re numbers that can be expressed as a ratio of two integers. Think of: ¾ 0.5 -2 However, explaining this to kids can feel less straightforward. The idea sounds abstract until it’s connected to something real. This quick guide outlines strategies for making learning about rational numbers approachable and fun.

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Give your child's brain some exercise with these riddles for kids. See how many you can solve together, from easy to hard (and some funny ones, too!). Updated for August 2025

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