Q: What is the first thing a new student would do upon entering Mathnasium?
A: When a new student comes in for the first time, they see a sign welcoming them to Mathnasium. The Center Director then escorts them to the instructor they will be working with for their first day, who then welcomes them and spends a little time explaining what they will be doing and how to use the system.
Q: What does the first session look like for new students?
A: After meeting the student for the first time, I review with them how the system works and how we will work together. I then go through the rewards system, how they can accumulate rewards points and cards, and show them the rewards cabinet. I make sure to ask them the types of toys/games/items that they like.
Q: Have you seen a student’s attitude towards math change?
A: Yes, a 5th grader I'll call Ana was very shy when she first started coming in, and it was hard for her to ask questions as she was afraid or embarrassed to. She felt the teacher went too fast, and was frustrated and felt bad about herself thinking that she wasn't learning well, so much so that in some ways, she did not want to try. After some time coming in slowly but surely, within a few months, Ana started to believe, and she became less shy and trusted us to help her. Ana is doing really well now, and said she looks forward to coming in.
Q: What do you wish students and parents knew before they brought their student to your center?
A: That math doesn't have to get progressively harder, and that everything they learn in class today is built from something they learned yesterday or last week or last marking period! Math doesn't have to get harder! We not only help our students learn those things they missed or forgot or did not quite understand, but if they bring their classwork and homework in with them, we will help them with what they are working on today so they do not form new gaps in their knowledge.
908-325-9069
