Mastering mathematical concepts and equations requires repeated and dedicated learning and practice. But, going through the learning journey can be frustrating for most kids because of the sheer number of times they’ll get math problems wrong and teeter at the brink of giving up. Therefore, parents and tutors must find a way to make it easier.
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This article is for parents and teachers of young math learners, and it details five tips to help children learn math. So, if you fall within this demographic, grab a cup of coffee; you’ve got a bit of learning to do today!
Build math into your kid's everyday life
The first step to help your child become more comfortable learning math is to weave it into the fabric of their daily life. Unlike what most people think, math goes beyond numbers; it also involves problem-solving.
Its concepts are present in almost all aspects of everyday life— from the tasks in the kitchen to the negotiation and exchange in stores and the thoughts behind the wheel.
You can help children learn math by incorporating it into everyday tasks and letting them take charge. For instance, allow them to ascertain the right amount of ingredients to add when making dinner or decide the price of items.
Also, on a road trip, have them think about the distance and how long before they reach their destination. The inclusion of math into kids’ everyday activities can enhance their core thinking, situational awareness, and reasoning abilities.
Encourage your kids to explain their thoughts
When solving math problems, speaking out is crucial. Hence, it is essential to encourage your kids to express themselves freely. Speaking out will help your kids gain confidence in their problem-solving abilities and be more conversant with mathematical terms and concepts.
Having your child explain their reasoning aloud while attempting to finish an assignment or solve a problem would benefit their learning journey. For instance, if your kids are solving division worksheets grade 4 equations, you can encourage them to explain the steps in solving each problem.
Alternatively, ask your kids the first step in solving a problem and why it is necessary. After that, ask them about subsequent stages and their importance. By doing these, you can gauge their current thought process and, if they get stuck, lead them back on track.
You can gain insight into their thought process and problem-solving abilities by freely talking to them as independent beings with unique experiences and challenges. Remember that they are not extensions of you.
Along the way, the kids will learn to arrive at a solution only after first considering why they are doing it; they will also learn to carefully consider multiple approaches before doing things.
Try card games
Playing card games is a great way to help children learn math. This approach will enhance their math skills even though it's a fun activity. The exciting thing about card games is that they can accommodate multiple players. So, if you have more than one kid, it would be excellent to have them together having fun while learning.
Another way to help children learn math is through board games. You can decide to buy a dedicated math board game or improvise with what you have. You can teach your kids that math can be exciting by connecting them with these games.
Still, on the game idea, playing those math games with them is the most delightful approach to helping your kids learn. Remember that kids learn best through playing, and you are most likely their role model. So, combining both factors and stocking up on games that let them hone their abilities while having fun will do more for their learning than paying for expensive tuition.
Try a tutor
If your work schedule necessitates your prolonged absence from the kids in such a way that prevents you from playing those games with them, you can get a dedicated tutor to help children learn math. Having a tutor guide your children will make things easier to understand.
A good math tutor can strengthen your child's weak spots and boost their confidence and self-esteem. Whether online or physical tutoring, you can rest assured that your child will get the individualized attention they need. This tutoring service can inspire a lifelong love for mathematics.
Students preparing for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT will benefit significantly from private tutoring. A tutor can assist your child by providing practice tests and teaching them techniques to ace them.
Private tutoring is crucial in helping your kids master mathematical concepts, prepare them for tests, and give them an edge over other students.
Be positive
Always have a positive attitude and be there for your child when they struggle with math. Feeling frustrated is normal when your child has difficulty with math. When your children find a concept complex, you must calm and encourage them.
Regardless of how often they miss the steps in solving an equation or fail to get the correct answer, you must keep your emotions under control. It will be counterproductive if your kids feel negativity or lack of support from you.
It is essential to reassure your kids that they can succeed, especially if they have math anxiety. Make them understand that it takes time and practice to learn math.
If you're having trouble controlling your emotions whenever you try to help children learn math, step away from the lesson or enlist a math tutor. You must also avoid comparing your child to other pupils. You must know that everyone learns at their own pace; drawing comparisons might affect your kid's mentality.
While teaching your kids, it is essential to add incentives. You can reward them with a biscuit or something they like when they get the correct answer.
Helping Your Children Learn Math
While learning math may be complicated, some tips can help your kids. To help your kids learn, you must allow them to learn while having fun and incorporate math into their everyday lives.
Also, gamifying the experience or getting a tutor to help you can all be great investments in your child’s education. By following the above tips, you can rest assured that your kids’ math skills will improve.
You Can Help Your Children Learn Math – FAQs
Does math aid kids’ brain development?
Math aids the brain development of kids. It also enhances one's analytical abilities, encourages more systematic and logical thought, and opens one's mind to tackle unfamiliar challenges.
How can I help struggling children learn math?
The best way to help struggling children learn math is by visualizing. If kids see the problem differently other than in writing, it will help them understand better. Diagrams, charts, and pictures help students much more than written word problems, equations, and number sentences.
Is math exciting?
Learning math can be an exciting activity for kids. Learning math inspires kids to think outside the box when solving math problems. Nothing beats the excitement when parents and tutors make math enjoyable for kids.
Is preschool math important?
Even for preschoolers, math is a vital subject; assisting them in developing their mathematical thinking is crucial. A child's math knowledge predicts later academic success better than early reading abilities.
