That’s not to say kids don’t have to learn their math facts, like their multiplication tables. They do. And, of course, teachers still teach from the front of the room and in small groups.

New math isn't actually new. A version of it can be traced to the 1950s after the Soviets launched Sputnik and American lawmakers panicked that we weren't teaching enough math and science.

Playing games that rely on counting and addition can help young kids build math skills, experts said. supersizer/E+/Getty Images. Editor’s Note: Sign up for CNN’s Wonder Theory science newsletter.

Photo credit: Amazon. Best for grades: 2-5 Math concepts: Real-life application of math fundamentals “I just don’t get why I have to learn this.” Sound familiar? Kids who struggle with math — and even ...