My 3 year old son loves math very much. He knows his numbers even to millions and can already do addition and subtraction. He is starting to grasp the concept of multiplication. He loves problem solving ("If you have 11 pencils and I have 10 pencils, how many pencils do we have"), and we do this all the time - in the car, during meal times and before going to bed. We're going to a vacation and the first thing he packs is his abacus.
He goes to a Montessori school because we know that this is an environment that will not restrict him and nurture his talents. He loved school so much, and his teachers are great. They certainly encouraged him, and the work he does now are those of the 5 year old kids (Montessori puts together kids 3-5 in one class). He's got a passion for books (preferably math books), and we're now starting on Grade 2 math books.
My question is -- how can I as a parent encourage him while making sure that I don't push him too far? Thanks
2006-06-17 08:50:08 · 6 answers · asked by imisidro 7 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Toddler & Preschooler
Isn't Montessori great?! I've taught Montessori for over 11 years and love it.
To answer your question, do what Maria Montessori would say. Follow the child. If your son enjoys what he is doing, let him do it and provide books and materials for him to do so. Don't force it, just help him when he is interested.
Is he going to continue in Montessori school? If he is going to public kindergarten (or first grade), I might (depending on his personality) be a little concerned that since he is way past the kindergarten curriculum, he may become bored. You'll have to get creative when helping him with homework. It would be great for him to continue in Montessori. I'm not sure about your area but in my area there aren't many Montessori school that go beyond kindergarten. Hopefully you have one. Here are some website that provide some great materials. Good luck!
http://www.montessoriservices.com
http://www.montessori-n-such.com
2006-06-17 10:59:09 · answer #1 · answered by marnonyahoo 6 · 13⤊ 1⤋
My daughter is also 3 and attends Montessori. You are doing everything right. It is such an amazingly enriching program, your son will yield the results for years to come.
The part of his brain that he uses for math, is highly stimulated by music. I would suggest getting him involved in music lessons. It sounds as if your son enjoys what he does, and if his passion is math, keep encouraging him. They can't get enough of it at this age. If you become obsessive about it, step back. Let him take the lead - if you are being pushy and he's not interested he will let you know.
Happy Parenting!
2006-06-17 20:34:56 · answer #2 · answered by turtlewoman2005 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My son is also very interested in math, though not quite as advanced as your little whiz!!
I have a book to suggest, called Indigo Child-- it addresses parenting different types of gifted children.
You sound like you're doing a great job. You know you are pushing too hard if your little one seems stressed, or does not want to keep playing-- just watch carefully.
My son has been learning to play chess-- and loves it!! It's all about patterns, and logic, and problem solving....your little guy might like the challenge!! Keep up the good work, and thank god every day that you have this gift!
2006-06-17 10:59:27 · answer #3 · answered by smarty 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would continue to encourage his passion for numbers and math the same way you have been doing, through games and fun play. Use your imagination and come up with new and different ways that will improve his skills.
2006-06-17 10:53:36 · answer #4 · answered by luveeduvee 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The best thing to do is to encourage his curiosity, but let him set the pace. That way he stays excited about new things, but doesn't feel like he has to always "perform".
2006-06-17 09:00:06 · answer #5 · answered by Bob S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
make sure he enjoys being a kid. It only last a short time
2006-06-17 08:54:42 · answer #6 · answered by bucnscott 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋