KS1 - maths methods?

[clothesrack]

Do children need to learn particular calculation methods for maths in KS1/Year 2?

The class seems to be doing adding two (and in some cases) three digit numbers. When I try and help my child with homework I'm not sure what method to use. The teacher assures me it doesn't matter, and that children can use any calculation method they wish until further up the school - and that all that matters until then is the answer. If she says this it must be right, but it seems to counter all I've read on here about how parents need to know modern class methods to support their children properly at home. Is this something that comes in later, and if so when (and where is the best way to find out about it?).

Different schools have different methods/calculation policies there isn't anything written in stone that says children must be taught to use such and such a method. If your child's school is happy with a child using the method they find easiest don't worry about other methods.

Thank you

There is a brilliant book called 'Maths for Mums and Dads'. It explains all of the modern methods, so that at least you can understand what they are doing, no matter which method it is. That is useful if they half-remember a method, or get in a muddle (like my class who get part -way through a subtraction and suddenly decide to add it instead!)