5 Things Parents Should Know About Getting Their Kids Support for the New School Year in Math

Hey there, fabulous parents! With the new school year around the corner, it's time to gear up and get our kids ready to tackle math with confidence and enthusiasm. I’m Vanessa aka “The Math Guru”, and I’m here to share my top tips on how you can support your children in their mathematical journey. Whether your kid loves math or dreads it, these strategies will help them feel more empowered and excited about numbers. Let's dive in!

1. Create a Positive Math Environment at Home

First things first, let’s ditch the “I’m not a math person” mindset. Kids pick up on our attitudes, so it’s crucial to foster a positive environment where math is seen as fun and accessible. Incorporate math into daily activities—cooking, shopping, even game nights can be full of math moments. Show them that math is everywhere and can be enjoyable. For instance, when cooking, involve them in measuring ingredients, or when shopping, let them handle the budget calculations. These small activities can significantly impact their perception of math as a useful and enjoyable part of everyday life. Highlight the relevance of math in various professions and life scenarios, emphasizing that math skills open doors to countless opportunities.

2. Identify Learning Styles and Needs

Every child learns differently. Some kids are visual learners, while others might be more hands-on or auditory. Pay attention to how your child learns best and tailor their math support accordingly. If you're unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to their teacher or a math specialist who can provide insights and resources suited to your child’s needs. Additionally, consider observing your child's study habits—do they grasp concepts better through diagrams and charts, or do they need to physically manipulate objects to understand? Personalized learning approaches, such as using visual aids, interactive tools, or storytelling, can make a significant difference in how effectively your child comprehends and retains math concepts.

3. Utilize Online Resources and Tools

We live in a digital age with a plethora of online resources that make learning math more engaging and interactive. Websites like Khan Academy, Mathletics, and Coolmath Games offer free or affordable access to math tutorials, practice problems, and fun games that reinforce learning. These platforms often include progress tracking, which can help you monitor your child’s improvement. Encourage your child to explore these resources during their study time and make it a regular part of their routine. Many of these tools offer adaptive learning, adjusting the difficulty based on the child's progress, which can help keep them challenged and motivated. Explore different platforms to find the ones that best match your child's interests and learning style.

4. Encourage a Growth Mindset

One of the most powerful things you can instill in your child is a growth mindset. Emphasize that intelligence can be developed through hard work and persistence. Praise their efforts, not just their results. When they encounter difficult problems, encourage them to view these challenges as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles. Remind them that making mistakes is part of the learning process. Share stories of famous mathematicians and scientists who overcame failures and persisted despite setbacks. Use phrases like "You worked really hard on that problem" instead of "You're so smart" to highlight the value of effort and perseverance. This mindset will not only help them in math but in all areas of their life.

5. Seek Extra Help When Needed

There’s no shame in asking for help. If your child is struggling with math, consider hiring a tutor or enrolling them in a math support program. Many schools offer after-school help sessions, and there are numerous private tutoring options available, both in-person and online. Finding the right support can make a world of difference in their confidence and ability to succeed. Research local tutors or tutoring centers that specialize in math. Look for reviews and testimonials from other parents to find a reputable tutor in your area. Online tutoring platforms can also be a great option, offering flexibility and access to a wide range of experts. Discuss with your child what type of help they feel comfortable with and involve them in the decision-making process.

Bonus Tip: Stay Involved & Communicate

Stay in the loop with your child’s progress by regularly communicating with their teachers and staying updated on their homework and test scores. This will help you identify any issues early on and address them promptly. Encourage open discussions about what they’re learning and how they’re feeling about their math classes. Your involvement shows them that you care and that their education is important. Attend parent-teacher conferences, and don’t hesitate to ask for specific feedback on your child's strengths and areas for improvement. Set aside regular time to review their homework together and discuss any challenges they might be facing. Being actively involved in their education fosters a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable seeking help and expressing their concerns.

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Remember, parents, your attitude and approach can make a significant impact on your child’s math journey. By creating a supportive, positive, and resource-rich environment, you’re setting them up for success. Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with growth, learning, and lots of math fun! You've got this!

Vanessa Vakharia is the author of 𝑀𝒶𝓉𝒽 𝐻𝒶𝒸𝓀𝓈 + 𝑀𝒶𝓉𝒽 𝐻𝒶𝒸𝓀𝓈 𝟚 , the host of the Math Therapy podcast, and the founder of The Math Guru tutoring studio.