Once in a while, you will find a child who loves numbers and problem solving. However, most children don’t have this innate ability. One study shows that an average of 33% of 15-year-old students feel helpless when trying to solve math problems. From the moments when they’re nervously standing at the board to solve a problem to when they’re at home losing focus while staring at numbers, this anxiety can be intense. Here’s why that is and how you can help your child if this is a problem for them.
Understanding Math Anxiety
Students deal with math anxiety for many reasons, the main one being that they struggle to get back up to speed if they miss one concept. Math builds on itself, more so than any other subject. Losing track creates low self-confidence for students and makes math intimidating to the point where children dread having to do it or learn about it.
Practicing Math Skills
Before making math fun you need to make it feel attainable. As the old saying goes, “practice makes progress.” Practice math at home with your child to make sure they fully understand what they’re learning. Provide positive reinforcement when your child tackles a new concept and encouragement when they’re still figuring it out. If they fall behind, see if you can help, or find a tutor who can help them catch up. Put a positive interaction no matter the path, however. Anxieties stem from consistent negative interactions around math.
Making it Real and Relatable
The main question that comes up for children who dislike math is “How will I use this in real life?” One way to make math fun is by showing children how it applies to real life. Go to the store together, and ask your child to estimate discounts or taxes on different products. Bring math into the kitchen by making your child’s favorite baked goods with their help. This is a great way to explore fractions! You can even do a scavenger hunt outdoors and for different geometrical shapes in nature.
Transforming Problems into Games
Nothing is as fun as playing games! Play math games together with flash cards, board games and other visual aids. If you’re both sports fans, talk to your child about sports in terms of scores, fractions and more. If your child is more into video games, make the connection there, encouraging your child to play math-focused games, as well as games like Minecraft that subtly help them work on their math and engineering skills.
At North Tampa Christian Academy, we focus on project-based learning to make every subject relatable — even math. Our Tampa private school encourages students to thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a project-based learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.