Backwards Numbers
I have a 4 year old that is whizzing through 0-10 addition math problems with ease and I am just a little concerned that she is writing some numbers backwards. Should I ignore it for now so that she doesn't get discouraged?
Or should I have her erase the number and rewrite it every time? It is usually number 7 and 2 We do practice writing our numbers correctly on separate sheets. She just keeps reversing them when doing her math. |
I would keep working on it as 27. Make it mean something other then numbers so she visualizes it as something new.
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It's totally normal for kids to write numbers backwards sometimes or often. I once had a little girl that always wrote her whole name backwards. When they are developmentally ready, they'll get it. I think it's fine to mention it sometimes that it's backwards, but I wouldn't 'make her' rewrite it. :)
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My own dd did this with many things. She tested in the 99% nationwide for highly gifted in math and non-verbal. She can still write upside down and backwards at the same time. This is stuff of engineers.
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Originally Posted by kendallina: The fact that the 4 year old is breezing through these problems is unique in itself. I would just say "oopsie, that number is backwards or reversed. Let me fix that for you." and move on. Perhaps a little more practice on writing numbers but not at the same time as doing the math. You've got a bright one there! |
Originally Posted by Kaddidle Care: She's reading first grade level. I have had her since she was 2 and I taught her to read at 3 but she would have learned anyway. Well thank you everyone, I will use all of your great advice. |
Yup, my DD still occasionally writes some letters/numbers backwards and she is in 1st grade. She is a great student and getting all A's. Her teacher says it is completely normal for them to write letters/numbers backwards until the 2nd grade.
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One of my instructors in teachers' college explained it like this: a spoon is a spoon, no matter which way you hold it, just like with every other object in the world -- except for letters and numbers. A "b" completely changes it's meaning when it's backwards or upside down. It's a HUGE shift in perspective for a child to grasp! So it's definitely not a big deal and its completely normal, especially at this age.
She's doing amazingly well for so young! Keep up the good work :Sunny:. |
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