How might a child explain the concept of subtraction?

A child might explain the concept of subtraction as counting backwards because this method directly illustrates how subtraction works. When you subtract, you are essentially taking away a certain amount from a larger number, which can be represented visually and conceptually as moving backwards on a number line. For example, if a child thinks about the equation 7 - 3, they can visualize or verbalize starting at 7 and then counting backwards three steps to reach 4. This approach emphasizes the idea of reducing a quantity, which is the core of what subtraction represents.

This intuitive understanding is often foundational in early math education, as it links the operation of subtraction to the familiar actions of counting and navigating a number line, making it easier for children to grasp.