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Identify the problem – Talk with your child
Start by trying to work out what aspects of maths your child is having difficulties with. For some it may be specific aspects of maths they are struggling with; e.g., fractions, decimals. For others it may simply be they are lacking confidence in maths and so everything seems difficult.
Talk to your child; try to get them to explain what they think is the problem. They might be able to explain it better to an older sibling, relation or friend.
Typically young people may say things like:
- I don’t want to appear silly so I don’t ask for help or ask questions.
- The teacher doesn’t explain how to do it well enough.
- The teacher goes too fast for me.
- It is all just too hard for me – I don’t get it.
- I just forget everything when we do a test.
These statements seem negative and may make you, as a parent, feel increasingly anxious and helpless.
However, they are actually a positive step in identifying the problem and allow you to work towards better supporting your child’s learning in mathematics.
You can reassure your child that these feelings are not uncommon, and that together you will be working on changing things.
You may also be able to discuss with your child the details of what they mean:
- What particular parts are ‘too hard’?
- What part of the lesson does the teacher go ‘too fast’?
You may even start developing strategies:
- How could you let the teacher know you need some help without the other students being aware?
- What might help you calm down in a test?
