Fun Summer Math Activities by the Pool

Libby Lossing, owner of Mathnasium of Queen Creek and Mathnasium of Litchfield Park & Goodyear, joins Arizona Family to share easy math activities families can incorporate into their summer fun. 

Here are 3 ways to reinforce your elementary child's math skills in a non-intimidating way: 

1) Fraction Pool Noodles 

Buy 4 or 5 pool noodles, preferably of different colors. Cut the pool noodles into different fractions, like 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 and 1/6. Have your student practice the following: 

• Identify which fraction is greatest and which is the least. 
• Come up with equivalent fractions. For example, two 1/4 pieces of pool noodle is the same as one piece of 1/2 pool noodle. 
• Combine fractions with unlike denominators. For example, 1/3 + 1/6 = 1/2. 

2) Numerical Fluency & Number Facts with a Beach Ball 

Write a bunch of numbers all over a beach ball. Toss the ball in the air and when you catch it, take note of which numbers are closest to your thumbs. 

1st and  2nd graders can add their numbers or subtract the smaller number from the larger number. 3rd and 4th graders can multiply their numbers to create a product. Middle school students can practice with integers. Decide whether you want your number from your left thumb or right thumb to be positive vs. negative numbers. Then you can add, subtract and/or multiply the numbers to get more comfortable working with positives and negatives. 

3) Follow a Recipe! 

Cooking allows your student to practice their measurement facts, work with fractions, and utilize ratios to perfect their mixture of ingredients or double a recipe. Mathnasium learning centers across Arizona are helping K-12 students beat the summer slide and get ready for the 2024-25 school year. The summer slide is the academic regression students see during their summer break; students lose 2-3 month of math skills during their time out of the classroom.

Watch this video to learn more. 

Source: Fun Summer Math Activities by the Pool with Mathnasium - 5/7/24 Segment on Arizona Family (KTVK TV), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7snJoLxhY0.