Take A Look At What Happens To The Brain While Learning Math

Apr 11, 2022 | Cary Park

Math brain

There's a lot going on in your child's brain when they're learning math. The parietal lobe and the frontal lobe are pretty busy firing neurons and recalling information. A recent study from The New York Times explains that our brains go through stages while thinking through a math problem. To dive deeper into these stages, we’ll rely on research conducted by Carnegie Mellon University. They say:

First, we have the Encoding Phase where the brain reads and understands the math problem.

Second, we have the Planning Phase when the brain begins working on how to tackle the math problem.

Third, we have the Solving Phase. Here the brain begins crunching numbers.

Lastly, we have the Responding Phase when we input our answer.

In essence, whenever we practice math, our brain is being trained to reach conclusions and overcome problems. Cool, huh? (Pretty sure, we all could benefit from this type of training.)

And if you're afraid your child's brain isn't up to the challenge, Jo Boaler from TEDX Stanford debunks a common math myth: "That there is such a thing as a math brain, and you're born with it or you're not." Science tells us that that is simply false. Brains can change.

At Mathnasium, we know that your child's brain can change. We love it when it happens, too. When kids' ability to do math increases, their confidence skyrockets. And when they have confidence in math, they start telling themselves things like this:

"I can figure this out."

"I am good at math."

"I understand this now."

At Mathnasium of Cary Park, we see results. Parents are noticing too! Read what these parents have to say:

 It is wonderful to watch our children's comfort and facility with math increase and Mathnasium has played a very important role in this!

– N.F.

Kevin has improved greatly in a short period of time and displays more confidence in his studies. Thank you

– Massiel R.

Want to see your child's brain begin to grow? Call Mathnasium of Cary Park today! Our Director, Ann Stengel, has seen the Mathnasium method help families just like yours. Come see us today at 10120 Green Level Church Road, Suite 214. Sign up now for a Free Assessment!