I think the problem is developmental, moving from concrete problems to abstract. If I remember it correctly my kids too could answer "If you have 5 cookies and eat 2 of them, how many will you have left?" earlier than "How much is 5-2?" Who cares how much is 5-2? Cookies, now that's a different story wink

Keep changing 5+2 into word problems and let him play with manipulatives. It will all come together one day.


LMom