(303) 979-9077
(303) 979-9077
[email protected]Students across the country are starting their first couple weeks of school as the summer ends. Along with the adjustment of returning to virtual learning after 3 months away, many parents of math-challenged students are searching for ways to ensure successful math instruction online. The learning environment may be different, but your child can thrive while learning math in an online setting. Here are 5 ways to support your star student in their quest for virtual math success!
Whether your child will be using Zoom or another web platform for virtual learning, become comfortable with the technical features and refamiliarize yourself with how they will be utilized for your child’s instruction. In the event you encounter any problems, you will be able to quickly troubleshoot and avoid distractions during instruction. If the instructor or school offers any technical tutorials or guides, take advantage of them to minimize issues during live instruction. If your child is more of a tech wiz than you, let them take the reins and show you all the bells and whistles.
Before each math class, help your child organize and clean their workspace and gather all their necessary supplies. Utilize folders or pens and markers in their favorite color to make their work area inviting. When possible, consider placing their computer on a raised surface, as some children focus better on tasks when standing rather than sitting down. Allow them to bring some of their favorite items into the study space, such as a picture of their friends or a favorite poster they can hang on the wall.
After their math instruction, set aside time with your child to reflect on their daily lesson and complete any related assignments. Try to review the lesson at the same time daily to help create a routine and set expectations. Include “brain breaks” in between learning based on your child’s age, such as allowing time for exercise or a physically engaging activity of their choice.
Encourage your child to confidently raise their virtual hands if they have questions or need help learning a new or challenging concept. Reassure them there is no such thing as a “dumb” question and help them recognize their teachers are there to provide support. Getting answers to any questions that may arise during the first weeks of math instruction will provide a good foundation and boost your child's ability to facilitate their learning.
Asking for help also includes staying in communication with your child's teacher. With in-person contact being limited due to Covid-19, communication is key.
Communicate early and often, as teachers will be relying on you to assist in making sure assignments are being completed and turned in. Confirm their preferred communication method and the fastest way to contact them. Share your preferred method of communication as well to better establish a two-way flow of information. Your child seeing you actively engage and talk with their teacher will help them feel comfortable to do the same.
We all need a little motivation from time to time, and your child is no different. If your child’s math instructor or school already has a reward system in place, such as the “Star Student of the Month” or awards a virtual prize for staying engaged during class, encourage your child to participate.
If a reward system is not offered, consider creating your own. For example, put a checkmark or sticker on a completed work assignment and tally up the number at the end of each week for a prize. Extend afterschool playtime or let your child pick the movie the family watches for the evening. When creating your reward system, simply consider what works best for your child. Involve them in this process to include stimulating incentives they will find exciting.
These five tips will help you and your child jumpstart the math instruction experience for this semester and provide an action plan for a smooth transition back to virtual learning. Our Mathnasium centers are happy to assist in supporting your child’s math education needs. We offer in-person and online math coaching for grades 2 through 12 that is tailored to meet your child’s specific goals.
Mathnasium@home is our new program where we bring the Mathnasium center and the Mathnasium Method™ to you! Through Mathnasium@home we offer live math instruction to students from home. This is included in your Mathnasium membership at no additional cost. Give us a call or send us an email for more information regarding our in-person and online offerings.
Wishing you and your child a successful school year!
