Top 5 Best Math Competitions for Your Kids

If you're a parent searching for the best math competitions for your kids, you're not alone. With STEM education gaining momentum, more families are seeking ways to nurture their child’s problem-solving and critical thinking skills outside the classroom.

Math competitions do just that—and the good news? Many of them are accessible, affordable, and open to all students, including homeschoolers.

Let’s explore the top math contests in the U.S. for elementary-aged children, why they matter, and how to get started.

Why Math Competitions Matter for Elementary Students

These contests aren’t about memorizing formulas. They focus on:

• Real-world problem solving

• Logical reasoning and puzzles

• Building academic confidence early

According to a 2023 study published by the Journal of Educational Psychology, students who regularly participate in math contests are 30% more likely to pursue STEM careers.

Top 5 Best Math Competitions for Your Kids

Here are the most popular and respected competitions in the U.S. for students ages 6–11.

1. Math Kangaroo

Grades: 1–12 Timing: Every March (Register: Sept 15–Dec 31) Format: In-person or online Cost: $18 per student Includes: T-shirt, certificate, and gift for all

Why it's great: With over 30,000 U.S. participants annually, Math Kangaroo promotes creative thinking and puzzle-solving. Even 1st graders can join!

Preparation tips: Use past papers, join AoPS discussions, and practice weekly.

Register: mathkangaroo.org

2. Noetic Learning Math Contest (NLMC)

Grades: 2–8 Timing: Twice a year (Nov & April) Format: Team-based, online or paper Cost: ~$30–35 per team (up to 30 students)

Why it's great: Parents can register a "team of one" if their school doesn’t participate. Students in the top 10% receive national medals.

Preparation tips: Weekly problem solving, use Beast Academy, and try the free Problem of the Week.

Register: noetic-learning.com

3. MOEMS (Math Olympiads for Elementary & Middle Schools)

Grades: 4–6 (Division E) Timing: 5 monthly contests (Nov to March) Format: Team-based, paper or online Cost: ~$5–10 per student (team registration required)

Why it's great: Builds deep problem-solving skills over time. Awards include pins, patches, and plaques.

Preparation tips: Use MOEMS practice books and hold weekly math club sessions.

Register: moems.org

4. Continental Math League (CML)

Grades: 2–6 Timing: Jan–Mar (Grades 2–3); Nov–Mar (Grades 4–6) Format: In-class or homeschool, 6 questions/30 mins Cost: ~$90–100 per team

Why it's great: Emphasizes logic and reading comprehension. Perfect for young learners just starting out.

Preparation tips: Practice past papers and review solution strategies together.

Register: cmleague.com

5. AMC 8 (American Mathematics Competitions)

Grades: Up to 8th grade, under age 14.5 Timing: Every January Format: In-person at authorized testing sites Cost: ~$10 per student

Why it's great: Highly prestigious. Great for advanced 5th or 6th graders aiming to join the national math talent pipeline.

Preparation tips: Timed practice with past AMC 8 exams and join AoPS AMC forums.

Register: maa.org/amc

Benefits of Participating in the Best Math Competitions for Your Kids

• Boosts academic confidence at an early age

• Recognition through medals, certificates, and national rankings

• Community support via clubs, online forums, and math circles

• Long-term impact on problem-solving mindset and academic trajectory

Competitions like Math Kangaroo and Noetic are particularly popular among families in The Woodlands, Spring, and surrounding areas.

How to Prepare Effectively

• Use official prep materials (many are free!)

• Join a math club or start a small practice group

• Set aside 30 minutes a week for fun, puzzle-style problems

• Use platforms like Art of Problem Solving, Brilliant.org, and Mathigon

What If Your School Doesn’t Participate?

No problem! Most contests allow:

• Parent-led registration (as a team or individual)

• Homeschool teams or local tutoring centers

• Online participation with flexible proctoring

If you live in Texas and want local support, consider programs that offer guidance, materials, and mentorship to help your child succeed.

How LearnToBot Supports Math Enthusiasts

At LearnToBot, we believe math is more than numbers—it’s a gateway to innovation.

Here’s how we support families:

• Structured learning: Kids build logic through robotics, coding, and circuit-based math games

• Personalized pace: From basic to advanced problem-solving tracks

• Confidence-building: Kids take part in real competitions with prep and mentorship

• STEM community: We connect families to local and national math circles

Our students regularly participate in Math Kangaroo, Noetic, and MOEMS—many for the very first time. LearnToBot helps with registration, practice plans, and even peer-group study.

Want your child to explore math with confidence? Check out our STEM Camps in The Woodlands

Final Thoughts

The best math competitions for your kids don’t just measure skill—they build it. From logic puzzles to timed challenges, these contests offer young minds a chance to grow, connect, and get recognized.

Start with one. See your child’s interest and confidence soar.