“PESO AND SENSE: HOW MONEY MAKES MATH CONCEPTS MORE ACCESSIBLE TO CHILDREN”

JOLLY ANN T. JIBALA, MAED

Understanding math concepts can be a challenging for children, as they struggle with abstract ideas, symbols, and equations that are not relevant from their daily experiences. The difficulty in pure mathematical concepts can create a barrier, leading to confusion and difficulty in understanding even the fundamentals. However, when the educational approach incorporates real-world elements, especially the concept of money, a different perspective occurs, making mathematics more understandable to young minds. Money serves as a practical tool that connects abstract math concepts to the real-life experiences of children. Unlike theoretical symbols and equations, money has a direct impact on their daily lives. The value of coins and bills converts into meaningful deals, offering a hands-on experience that helps bridge the gap between principles and practical application. The integration of money into math lessons provides a relates to the children's daily experiences. They encounter money regularly in various forms, whether receiving allowances, making purchases, or observing financial transactions within their families. This familiarity creates a sense of relevance, making it easier for children to understand mathematical concepts. In addition, the motivation for learning math is significantly enhanced when money becomes a part of it. Children are naturally curious about the world around them, and the prospect of managing money. This motivation plays a crucial role in making the learning process enjoyable and effective. The use of money in math education simplifies complex concepts and teaches financial literacy from a young age. As children learning the practical aspects of handling money, they develop essential life skills that extend beyond the realm of mathematics. Also, math and money concepts play a vital role in reducing poverty by providing to every individual knowledge and opportunities to make informed financial decisions and build economic resilience. To sum up, integrating money into math education proves to be a powerful strategy in children understanding abstract math concepts. The importance of money in their daily lives, not only makes math more accessible but also instills a sense of practicality and relevance, laying a strong foundation for lifelong mathematical understanding and financial literacy.

author is

Teacher

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III from Villa Teodora Elementary School