How to Maintain a Positive Math Mindset 2022

Classes are in full swing and students are getting settled into a routine. Which means it's a good time to create a plan to ensure that your child's math experience this year is positive, productive and rewarding. Here are some great ways to make math a priority for your child even when school is at its busiest:

1. Develop open communication with their teacher. Your child's math teacher has a class full of students with different needs and skill levels. You are much more likely to hear about how your child is doing if you open up the lines of communication early. Introduce yourself at the first opportuity. Let them know you welcome their input on your child's progress. Show your support for the work they do. Being on familar terms with the teacher makes it easier to approach them if you have any questions or concerns at any time during the school year.

2. Have their math skills evaluated. Knowing your child's strengths and weaknesses early in the school year is a great way to prevent frustration as new math concepts are introduced. A good evaluation will also tell you how your child learns best and what kinds of teaching methods they respond to. You might consider taking them to our Center for a comprehensive, expert assessment. It will pinpoint the specific math concepts your child needs to master to meet their learning goals.

3. Look at their grades and progress reports. Because there is so much going on during the school year, it can be easy to let grades and progress reports go unnoticed. But these are important updates to check so that any problem areas can be addressed right away, before they become bigger issues. Find out from your child's teacher when grades will be posted and make the dates on your calendar. Or schedule reminders for yourself. This way you'll know you're staying on top of it and aren't left wondering if something slipped by you.

4. Resolve issue early on. You can give your child a real advantage simply by paying attention to warning signs before they become real problems. if they're having a hard time getting their homework done, make sure they're doing it in a clean, comfortable workspace free of distractions. This can make all the difference. If you notice that they're struggling with a particular concept, make sure they get the help they need to master it right away, as math concepts build on each other. Enrolling your child in a math learning program like Mathnasium early on is a great way to address any gaps in their knowledge and give them the confidence they need for yearlong success.

5. Find out how they're feeling about math. One of the best ways to support your child through their math journey is to talk about the importance of math, not just for this school year but for anything they want to pursue in their future. Every so often, ask them how it's going. Invite them to share with you what they're learning. If your child is resistant to these direct discussions, math with them. In other words, engage in math exercises as you go about your daily activities. This can be done while grocery shopping, watching sports, or walking the dog around the neighborhood. Doing this will give you a sense of which concepts they understand and which ones are causing frustration. However you go about it, let your child know that you welcome discussions on what they would like to achieve this year and beyond. Help them think positively about their potential for success.

Children who are taught to learn math in a way that makes sense to them are more likely to develop a passion for it. At Mathnasium, students don't just learn how to memorize facts, they learn to truly understand the way math works. As their comprehension increases, their enthusiasm and confidence grow, and they strengthen their natural love of learning. We welcome you to visit our center so that we can answer your questions and show you how we can change your child's life through math.