Why Your Child Needs Math More Than You Think

As kids get older, we hear the question "when will I ever use math in real life?" and sometimes adults get stuck on how to respond as often times they aren't always aware of how they use math.  The answer is "Every day!"  Math is all about problem solving.  Using formulas, rules, and tools that we learn, we are able to use logic to solve problems.  From managing money, enjoying sports, eating healthy, and our careers, math is everywhere!  Below, we cover these examples of how math is involved in our lives

Money management is an important skill necessary for everyone. When young, it may start with a saving portion of their allowance to buy a new video game or electronic device. As we get older, money management becomes budgeting for monthly expenses, planning for retirement, determining what investments will have the greatest return, and managing multiple accounts.

Eating healthy takes math, too. From taking supplements to ensure we're getting 100% of our daily nutrients to using proportions while doubling or halving a recipe, math is a key part to cooking and eating healthy.   

Math is even involved in sports, with both players and coaches.   Successful players understand angles, quickly determine where another player will be based on their speed/direction, and know how much force to use. Coaches use math when determining which players to use for line-up or helping players reach their max performace. For sport spectators, math is used to rank sports players and predict match outcomes.

Math is needed to prepare for future careers as well.  For instance, the first step many people take towards a career is attending a 2-year or 4-year school.  Of course, math is essential for STEM-related majors; however, colleges and universities also require non-STEM majors to complete at least one math course to obtain a degree.  Some people opt out of formal schooling to pursue a trade, but those who pursue trades also use math. Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians regularly use fractions, percents, equations, geometry, and basic trigonometry.  Even careers in art, such as photography and design, rely heavily on proportions and angles. For those with an entrepreneur streak, ensure your business returns a profit by regularly calculating and reviewing KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and ROI (Return On Investment).  No matter what career path one follows, a strong foundation in math will set the path for success!  

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