Maths equals fun and games

A computer maths game that children prefer to all others - it doesn't sound possible, but Mathletics can be like that, 3P Learning CEO Yvonne Blanch says.

It's a web-based game that presents New Zealand's maths curriculum in the form of animated games. They can be accessed 24 hours a day, so that users can beat their own scores. With ultrafast broadband they can also play with others from across the world.

The Mathletics platform is even used by some adults, and it sends weekly progress updates to parents and teachers.

Ms Blanch is bringing it to TechEx in Wanganui on July 20. People will be given a user name and password and be able to try beating their own high scores, and their friends.

"It's all about challenging themselves to understand maths better, and that maths is a lot of fun," Ms Blanch said.

She's heard of intermediate-aged children who organise Mathletics parties, and children who play it in preference to other games.

"Kids are achieving from day one, and enjoying it. We get parents come up and just about hug us," she said.

Mathletics is already being used by some Wanganui schools and some individuals, and Ms Blanch is hoping they will make themselves known at her TechEx stall.

"We get a kick out of feedback from parents, teachers and kids. We know we make teachers' lives easier."

Her business, 3P Learning, is based in Whakatane and also makes spelling and reading aids.