CENTER FOR FAMILY MATH TOOLKIT
Foster Joyful Math Learning:
Engage Families through Play-based Strategies
Below, you'll find a curated toolkit of research-based resources designed to help educators and families make math learning joyful, engaging, and relevant.

Play-Based Math Games
- Math Myths vs. Facts [Spanish]: Before you get started, mindset matters! Debunk common math myths and foster a strong, positive math mindset by showing that everyone can be a 'math person'! Pairing math games with positive messaging helps students gain confidence while they play.
- K-8 Math Games with a Deck of Cards: These easy-to-play card games for grades K-8 help strengthen key math skills while fostering a growth mindset. Each game outlines the skills being strengthened and the number of players needed.


Build Math Discourse
- Six Guiding Questions: Flip traditional roles and let students be the teacher! Use these six prompts to help students explain their thinking, clarify ideas, and build math confidence during homework time.
- Learning by Teaching Family Math Prompts [Spanish]: For extra support, use these family-friendly prompts to facilitate a generative math conversation.
💡 Tip: If students get stuck, encourage them to use their notes, class resources, or online tools to find answers, just like real mathematicians do!
Connect Math to Daily Life
- Math is All Around Us: Discover math in everyday moments from cooking and shopping to games and traditions. Honor families' experiences, skills, and culture.
- Family Math Interview [Spanish]: Have students interview a family member about how they use math in everyday life. Spark positive math conversations, reinforce real-world connections, and build confidence.
Strengthen Relationships with Families
- Math Unit Introduction Newsletter Template [includes Spanish template]: This template helps educators keep families informed and engaged. Personalize sections to preview upcoming math topics, share key learning objectives, and suggest simple ways to extend math learning at home.
Turn play into powerful math conversations
MathVoice provides play-based activities that help students explain their thinking, build positive math mindsets, and give families and teachers deeper insight into their mathematical reasoning.