
How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Mathematics Learning
As a teacher and tutor with over two decades of experience working with students and parents, and as a parent myself, I have seen firsthand the powerful role parents play in shaping a child’s attitude and success in mathematics. Here are some practical strategies for parents to foster a positive and supportive environment that helps their child thrive in math.
1. Foster Positive Thinking About Math
A child’s perception of math often begins at home. If parents express negative views, such as, “I struggled with math as a kid,” or “I find math hard,” children may internalise these beliefs, assuming math is inherently difficult or unachievable.
Instead, promote a positive narrative. Celebrate math as a skill that can be learned and improved with effort and practice. Even if math was a challenge for you, you can reframe the conversation by saying, “While I found math tough, with more effort put it, I saw the improvement.”
If you have already voiced negative opinions, it is not too late to shift your tone. Celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small. For instance, if they improve on a math test, you might say, “Looks like you’ve proven me wrong! I struggled with math, but you’re doing so much better than I did.” This encourages them to see themselves as capable learners.
2. Prevent Exam Anxiety
Exam anxiety can be a significant hurdle, especially for math exams, where fear and stress can lead to mental blocks during tests. Once a child develops this anxiety, it can become a vicious cycle: fear leads to poor performance, which reinforces the fear in subsequent exams.
To avoid this, never portray exams as frightening or final. Instead, reassure your child that exams are opportunities to gain experience and grow, not events that determine their worth. Even for major national exams, remind them that there are always alternative paths and second chances.
Avoid making threats like, “If you don’t score well, you’ll be punished.” Such statements can intensify fear and create unnecessary pressure. Instead, focus on preparation and effort, emphasising that their hard work matters more than the outcome.
If your child shows signs of exam anxiety, such as panic attacks, mind blanks during exams, or extreme stress, consider seeking counselling or therapy to help them develop coping strategies.
3. Assess the Need for Math Tuition
Math Tuition can be a valuable support system, but it is essential to evaluate your child’s needs carefully. If they are struggling to understand their teacher’s explanations or need more regular practice, tuition can help bridge the gap.
On the other hand, if your child already has a packed schedule and struggles to find time for homework, adding tuition might exacerbate the problem. Before committing to tuition, consider their workload and whether their challenges stem from time management or a lack of understanding.
If you decide to pursue tuition, choose a tutor, or programme that aligns with your child’s learning style and needs. For example, a child may prefer a group tuition for a more structured approach to learning and practice. Or your child may prefer one-to-one tuition for help with understanding his schoolwork.
Also read: Conquer Math with These 10 Game-Changing Tips
4. Stay Involved Without Over-Meddling
Being aware of your child’s academic progress is crucial, but there is a fine line between staying informed and becoming overly involved. Keep track of test dates, exam results, and overall performance. Check in regularly to see if they are keeping up with schoolwork or encountering difficulties. Get your child to plan a revision schedule and check the schedule.
However, avoid micromanaging their learning. For instance, if you are unfamiliar with their math content, do not insist on dissecting their mistakes or conducting post-mortems of every exam script. This may add unnecessary pressure and frustration to the child.
Instead, focus on providing support that aligns with their needs. Be concerned and aware, but also give your child the space to manage the fine details of his math learning. Ask yourself whether your involvement is truly for their benefit or if it is driven by your own concerns.
5. View Tuition as Support, Not a Solution
Tuition should complement your child’s efforts, not replace their responsibility for their learning. Avoid changing tutors frequently based on short-term results, as this disrupts their learning process and can make them feel that the tutor is solely responsible for their math results.
If your child finds their current tuition program helpful, stick with it. Encourage them to take ownership of their results, understanding that progress is a team effort involving their effort, the tutor’s guidance, and your support.
6. Recognise That Results Belong to Your Child, Not You
It is natural to feel disappointed if your child’s results do not meet expectations, but it is essential to remember that the outcomes are theirs, not yours. Getting angry or berating them for poor performance only makes them feel the double whammy of poor results and angry parent.
Instead, approach setbacks with empathy. Discuss what can be done to improve and collaborate on solutions, such as setting limits on screen time or restructuring their schedule to prioritize study.
If your child has been working hard but still struggles, acknowledge their effort. Sometimes, exams are genuinely challenging, and what they need most is your understanding and encouragement.
7. Watch for Signs of Struggle
Be vigilant for signs that your child may not be coping well. Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, obsessive behaviours, insomnia, or extreme stress can indicate deeper issues that require attention.
If you notice these signs, consider consulting a professional for guidance. Early intervention can make a significant difference in helping your child manage their stress and build resilience.
8. Be a Source of Comfort and Stability
Children thrive when they feel supported, especially during stressful periods like exams. Be their anchor by maintaining a balanced and nurturing home environment.
Simple gestures, like sharing family meals, planning outings, or offering logistical support (e.g., driving them to classes), can make a significant difference. These acts show that you are invested in their well-being, not just their academic success.
Additionally, ensure they are eating well and getting enough rest, particularly during exam periods. A well-fed, well-rested child is better equipped to manage challenges and perform to the best of their ability.
Conclusion
Supporting your child’s math education requires a combination of positivity, understanding, and practical strategies. By fostering a growth mindset, preventing exam anxiety, and providing tailored support, parents can help their children build confidence and resilience in math.
Remember, your role is not just to ensure good grades. It is to nurture a lifelong love of learning and equip your child with the tools they need to succeed, both academically and emotionally. With your encouragement and guidance, math can become a subject they not only excel in but also enjoy.