At UNIS Hanoi, we believe that math is not just about numbers—it’s about curiosity, exploration, and making connections to the world around us. In our latest Raising Tomorrow Coffee Morning, we explored how to make math meaningful and engaging for young learners, helping them develop a strong foundation through play-based learning.

For parents who couldn’t attend, here’s a recap of the key insights and strategies shared during the session.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO ‘DO’ MATHEMATICS?

Many of us grew up thinking of math as a set of rules to memorise—solving equations, reciting times tables, and following formulas. However, true mathematical thinking goes far beyond computation.

Mathematics is driven by curiosity and problem-solving. As educator Tracy Zager explains:

“It’s not possible to do good mathematics—or enjoy it—without being curious, asking questions, seeking out patterns, and probing for underlying reasons.”

Children are natural problem-solvers. When they explore patterns, make predictions, and ask “What if…?”, they are engaging in real mathematical thinking. Encouraging this curiosity at home helps children develop the mindset they need to confidently approach math challenges and persist through problem-solving.

WHY PLAY MATTERS IN EARLY MATHS LEARNING

Mathematical thinking doesn’t only happen at a desk with worksheets—it happens everywhere, especially through play!

What books are to reading, play is to mathematics. Play provides children with hands-on experiences that allow them to explore mathematical concepts in a fun, low-pressure way.

Through games, children naturally develop essential mathematical skills, including:
 Counting and number recognition – Learning to recognise numbers in different contexts builds early numeracy skills.
 Pattern recognition and sequencing – Games help children identify and predict patterns, a key foundation for algebraic thinking.
 Strategic thinking and decision-making – Board games and puzzles encourage children to plan ahead and solve problems logically.
 Turn-taking and following rules – Learning to play games with structure reinforces discipline and patience, essential skills for problem-solving in math.
 Confidence in math – The more children engage with numbers in playful ways, the more comfortable and positive they feel about math.

Rather than seeing math as something separate from everyday life, we can integrate it into games, conversations, and daily routines, helping children develop a love for learning.

GAMES THAT BUILD MATHS SKILLS

During the session, parents participated in interactive math games that can be easily incorporated at home. These activities help reinforce key skills such as number sense, logical reasoning, and problem-solving.

Here are a few math-based games that were highlighted:

 Dice & Card Games

Simple games using dice or playing cards can strengthen number sense, addition/subtraction fluency, and strategy. Examples include:

• “Make 10” – Using a deck of cards, challenge children to find two numbers that add up to 10.
• Dice War – Roll two dice and have children add or multiply the numbers; the highest sum or product wins.
• Greater/Lesser Than Battles – Using playing cards, children compare numbers to determine which is greater.

 Puzzles & Pattern Recognition

Pattern-based games help children recognise relationships between numbers. Try:

• Tangrams – A great way to develop spatial reasoning and geometric understanding.
• Sudoku for Kids – Encourages logical reasoning and number placement strategies.
• Pattern Blocks – Helps children visualise symmetry and shapes while exploring different arrangements.

 Everyday Math Moments

Beyond structured games, parents can bring math into daily routines:

• Cooking & Baking – Measuring ingredients introduces concepts of fractions and proportions.
• Shopping & Money – Encouraging children to count coins or compare prices develops financial literacy.
• Time & Schedules – Talking about daily routines using time concepts strengthens their ability to tell time and understand sequences.

By making math part of everyday life, children begin to see it as a tool they can use rather than just a subject they have to learn.

BUILDING A POSITIVE MATHS MIND SET

A critical takeaway from the session was the importance of growth mindset in math. Many children (and adults) believe they are either “good” or “bad” at math, but the truth is math skills develop through practice, persistence, and a positive attitude.

At UNIS Hanoi, we encourage children to adopt these math mindsets:

 “I get it!” – Encourage children to explain their reasoning instead of just getting the “right answer.”
 “I can do it!” – Mistakes are part of learning! Instead of saying “I’m bad at math,” help children say, “I don’t get it yet.”
 “I can plan it!” – Encourage strategic thinking by asking, “How did you figure that out?”
 “I can explain it!” – If a child can teach a math concept to someone else, they truly understand it!
 “I’ll keep trying!” – Persistence is key! Remind children that math is a process of discovery.

By focusing on effort and problem-solving, rather than just correctness, children gain the confidence to tackle challenges and persist in their learning.