Maths has a reputation for being one of the most challenging subjects. From algebraic equations to long multiplication, your child has many topics to master. Fortunately, with the right strategies and support, students can build confidence in mastering the numbers and excel in maths.
Whether your child is preparing for their SATs, GCSEs or simply looking to gain confidence, we’ve put together seven effective strategies they can use immediately.
Understanding Why Children Struggle with Maths
Fear of Failure: Mathematics can sometimes be daunting for children, and the fear of making mistakes or giving wrong answers can hold them back. This fear of failure can create anxiety around the subject.
Lack of Strong Foundations: Maths is built upon foundational concepts. If a child misses or misunderstands these basics, it can create a shaky framework for further learning.
Abstract Nature: Maths often deals with abstract concepts and symbols that can be challenging for children to grasp. The disconnect between real-world experiences and mathematical abstractions can be confusing.
Pressure for Speed: In a classroom setting, there’s often an emphasis on completing math problems quickly. Some children may prioritise speed over understanding, leading to surface-level learning.
Diverse Learning Styles: Every child learns differently. While some may excel with visual aids or hands-on activities, others might struggle with traditional teaching methods that don’t align with their preferred learning style.
Maths Anxiety: Many children experience maths anxiety, a fear or apprehension about the subject. This anxiety can stem from past difficulties, negative experiences, or a belief that they are “just not good at maths.”
Our 7 Tips For Maths Success
1. Practice, Practice, Practice
As with many learning paths, the most efficient and effective route to success is to practice. Encourage your child to work through maths problems regularly and allow them to reinforce what they’ve learned and build confidence.
2. Clear and Patient Explanations
When helping your child with maths homework, provide clear and patient explanations to help them understand concepts better. Just be mindful that things may have changed somewhat since you learned the concept. There are many resources available online to help you get up to speed and refresh your knowledge.
3. Real-Life Applications
Bring maths to life using real-world examples and applications. From mixing measured ingredients to working out the best shopping deals in the supermarket, maths is all around us.
4. Problem-Solving Strategies
Equip your child with super-smart problem-solving skills and strategies. Many maths problems can look challenging at the start but once broken down they suddenly become much more manageable. Teach your child how to spot hidden patterns, work out number sequences and master rules like BODMAS and BIDMAS.
5. Interactive Learning Resources
Ready for some maths fun? Explore cool online resources and nifty maths apps that make learning enjoyable. Your child can dive into interactive games and lessons that’ll have them saying “Maths? It’s a piece of cake!”
6. Positive Reinforcement
Cue the confetti! Get ready to celebrate the maths victories, no matter how small. Encouragement and positive reinforcement can turn any challenge into a confidence booster.
7. Professional Support
Sometimes, we all need a little extra help and encouragement. If your child is struggling with maths in general or a particular aspect of maths, a maths tutor could help them to make sense of the most challenging of maths problems.
Why Turning to Tutor Doctor Adds Up
With years of experience, a personalised approach, and tons of resources at their fingertips, Tutor Doctor tutors offer exceptional maths support tailored to your child. This unique combination of expertise and individualised attention ensures that each student receives a learning experience that works for them.
Find a tutor local to you and help your child to master maths no matter where they are currently in their education journey.
