What Can You Do if Your Child Struggles with Mathematics?

As a parent, you want to see your child succeed in life and in school. So what happens when your child shows signs of struggling academically?

Never fear—there is hope! Challenging curriculum can be a positive learning experience for children. As a result, wrestling with difficult homework can actually be a part of the growing process for many subjects.

So, when do you know to give your child a boost? Here are some signs to look for as you navigate through the academic world of learning.

 

First Steps

While change is inevitable, every child deals with it in a different way. As a parent, you want to be there for them and help them adjust to whatever life throws their way.

Maybe math has been a challenge for your child since the early stages of learning to count. Or perhaps it has progressed as more complex mathematics are introduced.

No matter the stage of math your child is currently learning, try these simple tips to keep your child’s academic journey on track:

1. 1. Identify speed bumps vs. roadblocks. Sometimes, a student needs to fail several times to learn how to succeed. When meeting an academic challenge, identify whether your child’s learning struggle is a “speed bump” that just needs encouragement and perseverance, or whether it’s a “roadblock” that needs intervention.
   2. Help early. When you identify a roadblock situation, ask for help earlier than later. As children learn and grow in school, developing a strong sense of academic confidence will prepare them for success for the road map ahead.

• Encourage growth with positive reinforcement. When you see your child making strides, be sure to encourage their efforts. Even if their hard work ends in more failed attempts than successes, hearing your encouragement can help them persevere through difficult seasons.

• Try learning math skills together. Having a support person to practice their skills with may inspire your child to pursue bigger goals. As you walk them through practice problems and skills, you role-model mathematical solutions together. One-on-one training is a great source of support to encourage your child to spend time with a parent while also practicing important math skills!

1. Seek out professional academic support. Admitting your child is ready for a more strategic plan of action can be intimidating, but it could make all the difference down the road. When these challenges aren’t resolved with encouragement and perseverance, getting your child the help that he or she needs is key.

Essentially, the important thing is to find out how to best support your child in their learning journey. Be sure to check out these resources for more tips and tricks when teaching your child math skills!

 

Why Montessori?

Sometimes, the biggest hurdle your child faces is not the content itself, but the learning environment. The Montessori class structure is a tried-and-true educational system designed to nurture natural gifts and academic skills at an early age.

Through a multi-grade level learning format, younger children learn from their peers as well as older students. This natural environment fosters creativity and social bonding while instilling core skills.

If your child is struggling with early math skills, Montessori can be a welcoming place for your child to practice their core curriculum.

 

Wondering if the Montessori system is right for your family?

Try scheduling a tour today with one of our academic advisors. In the meantime, browse the halls and program features online, and see firsthand what a difference Montessori education can make in the life of your student.

Despite the unique challenges facing your child, there is support. Reach out to Austin Children’s Academy today to get started on the learning journey of a lifetime!