 This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It's always a joy to see your child excel in something they love. For my toddler, math is one of those areas where he truly shines. He's quick to grasp new concepts, enjoys solving problems, and often surprises me with his ability to think through challenges. However, like many young children, he’s still working on his handwriting skills, which can sometimes make the process of answering math problems a bit frustrating for him. The Problem: Handwriting Struggles Handwriting is a skill that takes time to develop, and for my son, it’s been a bit of a hurdle. He's only 3-years-old and I don't want to pressure him to learn to write when he's clearly just not ready. While he’s more than capable of understanding and solving math problems, writing down the answers was causing unnecessary stress. I could see his enthusiasm for math fading as he struggled to form the numbers on the page. This was concerning for me, as I wanted to nurture his love for math, not let it be overshadowed by frustration over handwriting. At first, I tried having him tell me the answers verbally and I would write them down for him, but he wasn’t satisfied with that. He wanted to complete the problems on his own to feel the satisfaction of finishing the task independently. This left me searching for a solution that would allow him to demonstrate his knowledge without the added pressure of perfect handwriting. The Solution: Stickers to the Rescue That’s when I had an idea—stickers! I decided to introduce stickers as a way for him to mark his answers. It was a simple but effective solution. Now, instead of having to write the numbers, he uses stickers to indicate his answers. This approach has made math fun again and eliminated the frustration that was previously holding him back. Stickers options: Type 1: Colorful Vinyl Number Stickers, 12 Sheets Each Sheet Contains Numbers 1 to 40 Type 2: 210pcs Foam Number Letter Stickers, Numbers 0-9 Using stickers has transformed math time from a potentially stressful experience into an enjoyable activity. He loves picking out the stickers, placing them on the correct answers, and feeling proud of his work. It’s a small change, but it has made a HUGE difference in how he approaches math when we use workbooks.  Workbook used: Lucas & Friends Preschool Math Activity Book Why This Works This method works because it allows him to focus on what he enjoys—solving math problems—without getting bogged down by a skill he’s still developing. It also gives him a sense of independence. He’s completing the tasks on his own, in a way that’s accessible and fun for him. For any parent facing a similar situation, I highly recommend trying this approach. It’s a wonderful way to keep your child engaged in learning, even when they’re still working on other skills. Plus, it’s adaptable to many different types of worksheets or workbooks, making it a versatile tool in your parenting toolkit.  Workbook used: Hippidoo Preschool Math Activity Workbook Alternative Solutions to Make Math Fun While stickers have worked wonders for my son, I understand that every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Here are some other creative solutions we've also used that might help your child enjoy math while they’re still developing their handwriting skills: 1. Circling the Answer If your child enjoys using a pencil but struggles with forming numbers, consider having them circle the correct answer instead of writing it out. This method keeps them engaged with the worksheet while reducing the pressure of perfect handwriting. It’s a simple adjustment that can make a big difference, especially if your child prefers a more hands-on approach. 2. Filling in an Answer Bubble Another great option is to use worksheets with answer bubbles below the problems, similar to what you might see on a multiple-choice test. Your child can simply fill in the correct bubble with a crayon or marker. This method adds a fun, visual element to the process and helps them practice making decisions and following through with a choice— skills that are important in many areas of learning. 3. Drawing a Line Between the Problem and the Solution For kids who enjoy connecting ideas visually, drawing a line from the problem to the correct answer can be a fun and interactive way to complete worksheets. You can either write the possible answers in a separate column or provide multiple problems with a matching set of answers. This approach turns math practice into a game of “matching,” which many children find both exciting and enjoyable.
4. Coloring the Correct Answer Coloring can be a relaxing and satisfying activity for many children, and it’s a great way to incorporate fun into learning. If your child loves to color, consider giving them worksheets where they can color in the correct answer. This allows them to express their creativity while reinforcing their math skills. Plus, it turns each completed worksheet into a mini art project they can be proud of.  Final Thoughts Every child is different, and finding what works best for them is key to nurturing their love of learning. For my son, stickers have become a bridge to continued success in math, and I’m grateful to have found a solution that supports his growth in a positive way. If your child is facing a similar challenge, consider trying stickers or another creative solution that can make learning both fun and effective. Sometimes, a small adjustment can go a long way when it comes to how our children experience their education.  Workbook used: Lucas & Friends Preschool Math Activity Book  What creative solutions have you found to help your child overcome learning challenges? What’s one small change you’ve made in your child’s routine that had a big impact on their learning? What other creative methods have you used or could suggest to help a child overcome handwriting challenges? 
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