Mathematics—it’s everywhere! From counting pocket money to measuring ingredients for the perfect batch of cookies, numbers are a part of our daily lives in ways we don’t always notice. But for some kids, Mathematics feels like a puzzle with missing pieces. The good news? With a little creativity, you can help your child—no matter their age—see beyond just numbers on a page.

Here are four fun and easy ways to make Mathematics a little less “ugh” and a lot more “aha!”

1. Turn play into learning

Let’s be real—kids love to play! And the best part? They can build Mathematics skills while they’re at it. Board games, card games and even simple dice games teach counting and strategy, puzzles strengthen spatial reasoning, and everyday objects from buttons to blueberries allow them to explore counting, sorting and basic arithmetic. Even simple activities like stacking blocks to explore patterns and symmetry can spark curiosity.

2. Storytelling and Mathematical mysteries

Stories are a wonderful gateway to imagination, and within their pages, mathematics thrives. From the simple rhythms of days of the week to the intricate logic of young detective novels, mathematical concepts are woven into the very fabric of narrative. Whether it’s measuring ingredients for a wizard’s potion or counting a dragon’s hoard of gold, weaving maths into stories transforms learning into an exciting part of the adventure.

3. Make it real

In the day-to-day, Mathematics is never far away. Keeping score in a game? That’s arithmetic 101. Comparing prices while shopping? That’s budgeting and cost analysis. Even checking the time or planning a trip involves Mathematics. For older kids, seeing how it plays a role in careers like engineering, medicine, and technology can also be a real eye-opener. Greg Georgiou, Mathematics & Numeracy Specialist at Sydney Catholic Schools, says the more children are able to see Mathematics in action, the more they’ll appreciate its value. “It’s about highlighting that Mathematics isn’t just something you learn at school, it’s very much an important part of everyday life.”

4. Link it to what they love

Want to get your child thinking about Mathematics? Connect it to their passions! Whether it’s music (rhythms and sound waves), sports (statistics and probability), art (geometry and proportions), or even starting their own business (budgeting and profit margins), Mathematics is hiding in the things they already enjoy. When learning feels personal, it sticks.

At the end of the day, Mathematics isn’t just about memorising formulas—it’s about building problem-solving skills that last a lifetime. By making it fun, practical, and relevant, you can help your child see Mathematics as a superpower rather than a school subject.

An emphasis on excellence in all areas of education – from academic to vocational, sport and the arts – helps Sydney Catholic Schools nurture the potential of all students in their 147-strong network of primary and secondary schools.

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