China - update #1

As I've posted before and would like to remember the process of saving for China.

We lay out a 1000 cube block built with Math U See manipulative blocks.

We then discuss how many of those blocks we need. 3. Which is 3000$

Using the (only) block we have I show how much we HAVE and how much we NEED.

I am using the opportunity to instill a deeper understanding of place value. 1000, 100s, 10s and ones.

Today the 'have' is $125 ;)

And the need to save not spend money.

Today I introduced Monopoly money. He wanted to smell it. It smells like paper.

I showed what $3000 looks like and how much he has. And how much he needs.

I look forward to finding and buying atleast two more thousand cube blocks to show all in one go.

This process probably takes 5-10 minutes.

We later discuss the process during random times such as driving down the street or sitting eating a meal together.

The child is so used to having his photo taken that he's begun to pose. Silly. On purpose ;)