The idea for this project came from observing elementary-aged children excitedly exploring science and history on school or family trips around the state. Where do we take our children to get them excited about math? Beyond that, how can we incorporate the appreciation of numbers and calculations in everyday situations? How do we support real math for real kids?

Mathematics is the most commonly used language in existence. Math surrounds us in our daily lives. It is urgently important that children make this connection at an early age so they recognize that mathematics is for everyone. Math is not just for mathematicians, and it's not just about manipulating numbers and making calculations. It's about making better daily decisions and understanding the world around us. It’s colorful, musical, and experimental; it’s time, money, and measurement. Math is fun, and math is real.

As stated in the NH Mathematics Frameworks, “Actively exploring, investigating, describing, and explaining mathematical ideas promote communication which leads to a greater comprehension of mathematical concepts.”

The sabbatical year was spent visiting museums and other enrichment centers in New Hampshire, looking for evidence of “math” in what was already being offered. Visit the Real Math Field Trips page for proof. Time was also spent collecting and reviewing online resources, and compiling suggestions for simple ways to appreciate the math around us.

If you have something to add, please visit the Parents or Teachers page to submit your ideas. This site will remain a “work in progress” and the more feedback we receive from you, the more useful and interesting realNHmath.org will be. Thank you in advance for your contributions.