I am trying to develop a resource for my children so that 'mental math' is easier. I have seen an algorithm for finding the square roots of numbers. Are there similar such algorithm for higher roots?

There are algorithms for finding square roots and for other powers as well. In the Resource Room there is a note that contains a geometric view of the square root algorithm. As a mathematician I don't find these algorithms particularly interesting. They don't lead to any useful mathematical results nor are they used in any practical application to actually compute roots.

It is my opinion that to develop math skills you are better off concentrating on problem solving strategies, modelling of situations etc. than algorithms and drill.

Harley