Create word problems at home to ease your children into story problems in natural, fun ways. Start by reading them a children's book such as, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. Then ask your child math questions related to the story. For example, If the caterpillar ate 3 plums on Wednesday and ate 4 strawberries on Thursday, how many pieces of fruit did the caterpillar eat in all? Modify the numbers depending on the ability of the child. Be sure to ask the child how they got their answer.
Alternative Numbers:
Grade 1: 8 plums, 10 strawberries
Grade 2: 13 plums, 12 strawberries
Answers: 7, 18, 25