Primary grade math is not simply arithmetic or memorization.  To build a strong foundation, students need to develop their understanding of number relationships.  Also, to prevent misconceptions, that can cause difficulties when they study algebra in middle school, I ask the children to say (and think) “is the same as” for the equal sign. 

Hence,

     16 = 10 + 6 makes as much sense as

    10 + 6 = 16.