“I hate math!” Have you heard this from your kids and wondered how to respond? Keep reading to discover ways to inspire math confidence as a math parent.
#1 – Be Positive
First, it is important to point out that being a math parent does not require a degree in math. When kids are frustrated with math, the best way to be a math parent is to listen. Even as adults, we struggle with various experiences in our everyday life. Sometimes we just want to be heard.
Furthermore, remind your kids that they are valuable, important, and special individuals with significant worth. Share that we all have struggles, yet we each contribute something special. Share positive characteristics and skills you see in them. Here are some examples: kind, funny, trustworthy, hard worker, leader, listener. When we see our positive traits, our crisis begins to look smaller.
In addition, when progress appears to slide, look forward and respond,
“This sometimes happens. Let’s see what we can do to make it better.”
Math is like a game.
Once you know the rules and play often,
you will improve!
#2 – Provide a Supportive Homework Environment
In addition, ensure that homework space is conducive to a positive study environment.
- For example:
1. Good lighting; outdoor light if possible
2. Lack of auditory distractions: TV, siblings at play, and others
3. Healthy snacks
4. Water to drink
For more ideas, click on the link below.
#3 – How to Help Your Kids with Homework
First, consider organization. Is the homework page crumpled up or torn when removed from the backpack? Is there a binder for the class, though it is not organized? Are homework pages, notes, and other study resources mixed up? Does the binder have page dividers for organizing the homework? If organization is an issue, begin here. See the following post for more ideas.
Next, what should you do if you do not understand the math problem in question? Or what if you attempt to explain a math process, though you notice growing tension in yourself and your kids? Keep in mind, your frustration and their frustration combined will be counter-productive. Let’s look at options.
- 1. Check with the teacher. Are there study guides, example pages, or websites that provide further instruction?
2. Are peer tutors provided for math in the classroom during the school day or after school?
3. Are there tutoring sessions provided at the school after school is out?
4. Ask the teacher for a list of recommended tutors.
5. Check your local community for math tutors.
#4 – Explore Math
Next, explore where math applications may be applied. For example, do web searches to discover math in art, science, nutrition, history, and occupations related to math.
Personal finance is another great way for students to observe math in action. Counting and saving money in a piggy bank is a great way for elementary students to work with adding using decimals. Middle School students may save and spend money. These students will also be learning about percentages. This provides insights into comparison pricing. Teens may have part-time jobs used to provide entertainment, clothing, and gas money. This will provide practice opportunities for budgeting.
Furthermore, math and music connections are easily recognized when we count note values when playing music. Math in music can be seen with fractions, decimals, and percentages.
Conclusion
In conclusion, being a math parent starts by providing emotional support. Next, providing a supportive homework environment, assistance with math problems using various resources, and helping our kids discover math applications are all part of being a great math parent!
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