Do you often wonder if you can do anything to help your child to excel in mathematics? Then you are not alone. Many parents share the same concern you have. Here are a few techniques that help you tackle this issue and improve your child’s maths skills.
Understand the Cause
Realizing the underlying cause is the first and foremost thing to do. Children have different reasons that account for their maths dislike. Have a look at some of them.
- I do not like the subject.
- I am not a maths person.
- The subject is tiresome; I think I cannot understand it.
- I understand everything during the class. But I cannot do it myself.
You might have heard your children saying any of these comments if they do not like mathematics very much. How to help them?
(In particular cases, disinterest in maths may result from conditions associated with dyslexia. In those conditions, it is advisable to seek expert help.)
I Do Not Like the Subject
Young learners have to learn every subject that is taught in their school irrespective of their interests. Furthermore, maths is one of the fundamental subjects; no one can thrive without it.
Generally, maths is considered a difficult subject taught in schools though it is not really. This misconception is one of the reasons why most children hate maths.
How to help? Examine your perception of maths. How do you speak about maths to your child; as a burdensome subject or an interesting topic? Remember, the attitude of parents can influence the children.
Help them to see the scope of the subject beyond classrooms. Attempt to discern its application in everything your child likes. For instance, if your child is interested in video games and spends time playing and talking about them, tell them what part maths plays behind those games. If you spend some time and effort on this, a change is possible only if you do not overdo it.
Create a collection of maths puzzles, games, and plays that will help your kid develop an interest in maths. Take this to your free times and get-togethers and help your child see how to play with the subject. Many such activities are available online; all you just need to do is sit down and search for them.
I Am Not a Maths Person
I did poorly in maths during my studies. How can I expect more from my child? Does your child often hear this from you? Your honesty will not help here. Most people consider genetics as the only factor that determines the intelligence of an individual. However, studies show that genes have only 50 percent of influence on one’s intelligence. The rest of the portion is contributed by other factors like the environment, parenting, availability of learning resources, etc. So, no one can blame hereditary factors alone for academic failures.
Instead of being empathetic to your child’s indifference to maths, try to convince them that maths ability is like any other skill. This ability is not fixed at birth but can be developed through constant practice. The saying “practice makes perfect” is true, in its all sense when it comes to learning mathematics.
It is Difficult; I Think I Cannot Understand it
A subject seems to be difficult for its learners mainly because of two reasons. One, they lack knowledge of fundamental concepts. Two, they cannot follow their instructor.
If children lack basic knowledge in maths, it becomes difficult for them to answer complex questions in higher standards. Poor performance discourages the learners and leads them to a conclusion that the subject is beyond their reach. Make sure your child knows basic concepts well. While doing so, remember to consider your child’s age and level.
Everyone has their own pace of learning. Being slow at solving problems is not a weakness besides, it shows they are thinking deeply. During a class, a teacher may not be able to address everyone’s needs efficiently. Furthermore, most students are not confident enough to raise their hands for further explanation. Sadly, there exist a few teachers who do not encourage the ‘silly questions’ in class. Giving ‘extra maths’ is the only possible way if this is the situation.
The Internet provides a variety of information about creative and innovative ways to teach Maths. You may find some interesting tips from experts like Eddie Woo, Australia’s famous maths teacher.
I Understand Everything During the Class. But I Cannot Do it Myself
Take a closer look at how your children learn rather than how long they learn. Maths is not to be memorized; it is to think and solve. It is beneficial to show them how to think when approaching a problem. Discourage every attempt to memorize answers because it may not always help them during examinations.
Teach your children how to manage stress and time during maths exams. Appreciate every single effort your child makes to tame this ‘arduous subject’.
In short, to help your child overcome maths difficulties, you need to assess where the problem is. Use creative learning techniques, rectify the misconceptions about the subject, and adopt efficient learning practices.
After reading all these, you might think, will it work for me? Give it a shot.
Also, if you have any ideas for us, please leave them in our comments.
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