While preparation of Class 1 Olympiads, Many Parents miss this...

How to Build a Strong Math Foundation for Class 1 Olympiads

Preparing your child for Class 1 Olympiad exams like IMO, NSTSE, or NMTC might feel overwhelming — especially for parents new to competitive exams. While many focus on buying the right books and worksheets, they often miss key foundational strategies that make a real difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete Class 1 Olympiad preparation process from understanding the syllabus to developing number sense, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Whether your child is appearing for SOF IMO or any other math Olympiad, this article will help you avoid common mistakes and give your child a confident head start.

Step 1: Understand the Syllabus

Class 1 Olympiads (like IMO, NMTC, or other competitions) typically cover:

Numbers (1-100, counting, place value)

Shapes & Patterns (basic geometry, symmetry)

Addition & Subtraction (up to 2 digits, word problems)

Measurement (length, weight, time)

Logical Reasoning (puzzles, sequences, odd one out)

Money & Simple Graphs (if applicable)

Check past papers(e.g., SOF IMO) to see question patterns.

Step 2: Build a Strong Foundation

1. Counting & Number Sense

   Practice counting forward/backward (1-100).  

    Teach number names, place value (tens & ones).  

    Use objects (blocks, beads) for hands-on learning.  

2. Basic Operations

    Start with addition/subtraction up to 20 using visuals (e.g., apples, toys).  

   Introduce word problems (e.g., "If you have 5 candies and get 3 more, how many?").  

3. Shapes & Patterns

    Identify circles, squares, triangles in daily life.  

   Teach simple patterns (e.g., red-blue-red-blue-?).  

Step 3: Introduce Olympiad-Specific Skills

1. Logical Reasoning

   - Solve puzzles (e.g., "Which shape comes next?").  

   - Play games like Sudoku for kids or spot-the-difference.  

2. Time & Measurement

   Teach clock reading (hour & half-hour).  

    Compare objects (longer/shorter, heavier/lighter).  

3. Money Basics

   Identify coins/notes (if included in syllabus).  

Step 4: Use the Right Resources

Books:

  MTG IMO Workbook for Class 1 (best for SOF Olympiads).  

  -BrainX Olympiad Trainer (for logical reasoning).  

Online Tools:

  - **Khan Academy Kids** (free interactive math games).  

Worksheets: Download free IMO sample papers from SOF official site.  

Step 5: Practice with Olympiad Papers

- Start with easy questions and gradually increase difficulty.  

- Solve previous years’ papers (e.g., SOF IMO Class 1 past papers).  

- Set a timer to simulate exam conditions (usually 60 mins for 35 questions).  

Example Question Types:

    "Which number comes between 18 and 20?"  

   - "If today is Monday, what day was yesterday?"  

Step 6: Make Math Fun & Engaging

Games: Snakes & Ladders (counting), card games (number matching).  

Real-life Math: Let them count toys, coins, or steps.  

Rewards: Stickers or small treats for correct answers.  

Step 7: Mock Tests & Revision

Conduct weekly tests to track progress.  

 Focus on weak areas (e.g., if they struggle with word problems, practice more).  

 Revise key concepts (like number bonds, shapes) regularly.  

You should know 

Keep your child Positive Encourage Him/Her effort, Dont expect always correct answers child may wrong sometime but motivate.

Short Sessions: 20-30 mins/day (Class 1 attention span is short) You may involve with your child make fun and try to guide positively 

Visual Learning: You can Use pictures, abacus, or drawings for clarity.  It make learning attractive 

Many parents miss this: Teach your child to read questions carefully. Class 1 Olympiads often have simple tricks, like:

"Circle the second tallest animal" (not just the tallest).

Sample plan for daily Practice 

With consistent practice and a playful approach, your child will develop strong problem-solving skills for the Olympiad!