Today, some parents worry whether kids who rely only on the calculator will learn enough math. Experts suggest that kids still need to learn how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide. But they can use the calculator at home to reinforce what they're learning in school.

Here are two ideas:

• Use the calculator to help your child learn number facts. Have her enter a problem—for example, 8 x 7. Then have her give the answer. Afterward, she can press the equal sign (=) to see whether she was right.

• Use the calculator to check homework. Once your child has completed a series of problems, have him get out the calculator to check his answers.

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