It's never too early for students to start mastering algebraic skills. They are important building blocks for competency in math. Critical concepts dealing with operations and simple algebraic methods are explored, including addition and subtraction techniques, simple word problems, and decomposing numbers. Helpful images engage readers, and accessible text makes each skill easy for them to understand. Subtraction word problems are addressed through the fun and familiar context of a child's birthday party. Written to reflect the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, this title familiarizes readers with standard K.OA.A.2.