Everyone speaks the language of numbers,

whether in commerce, expressing age or

calculating distance. Mathematics is the only

language shared by all humans - regardless

of native tongue, geography, economic

background or culture.

In today's global economy, everyone, not

just those who are mathematically inclined,

must know how to speak math - understand

mathematical concepts. The key to lifelong,

academic and economic success is the

development of critical thinking skills and

numerical fluency in math curriculums from

pre-kindergarten through high school.

Students should begin to develop a good

grasp of numbers while they are young.

Although memorizing multiplication tables

and solving calculations are important,

developing a solid sense of numbers is

essential.

According to the National Council of

Teachers of Mathematics, by focusing on

mathematics - especially algebra - across all

grades, we will ensure that students develop

the analytical thinking and reasoning skills

needed for success in school and beyond. In

essence, algebra for middle and high school

students must be preceded by algebraic

reasoning in the early years.

"Students who successfully complete higher

level mathematics courses - beginning with

algebra - are at an advantage," says Judy

Ann Brown, mathematics program manager

for Sylvan Learning. Traditionally, students

cannot take advanced mathematics classes in

secondary school until they have mastered

the foundational math concepts learned in

elementary school - decimals and fractions

and successfully completed Algebra 1.

"Success in Algebra 1 is pivotal because it is

the language spoken in mathematics."

An understanding of the importance of math

in their lives puts students well on their

way to academic success. Sylvan Learning

encourages parents to play an active role in

boosting their children's number sense and

discovering a love of higher mathematics.

for students to see the value of math.

Think of tasks that you do everyday;

rearranging a teenager's room is a

lesson in geometry and equally cutting

slices of pie can teach fractions. The

more parents talk about math while

completing these tasks, the more

students will realize its importance.

plan a family activity while remaining

in budget. For example, ask them to

plan a night at the movies or create a

budget for the family vacation.

Think out loud so your child can hear

your analytical reasoning. For younger

children, count your change or discuss

which measuring cup is needed when

baking a birthday cake. For older

students, calculate discounts when

shopping or estimate how much money

will be needed to fill up the gas tank.

Casually talk about mathematics while

highlighting the types of math needed in

your children's chosen, "cool" careers.

Video game designers, architects,

doctors, football coaches, musicians and

chefs utilize math skills every day.

of their math efforts even when

they struggle. When students are

confident in their abilities, they enjoy

learning. That love of learning leads

to a willingness to try new, academic

experiences.