Maths can be a challenging school subject for many children, but regardless of whether your child loves or hates maths, it’s always beneficial for them to have the support of their parents where possible. If you’re wondering what you can do to help your child and give them a head start in maths, read on for some top tips from a private school in Gerrards Cross.
Be Positive
A positive approach can go a long way when it comes to helping your child. You might not be great at maths yourself but saying things like “I hated maths as a child” or “I’m rubbish at maths” will not encourage them, it will make them feel even more negative about it. So, try and be optimistic and project a positive approach towards their learning. Praise them for their efforts, even if they get the answer wrong.
Incorporate Maths Into Daily Life
Helping your child become familiar with numbers and basic sums by asking them to help you with mathematical problems on a daily basis. Next time you’re out for a meal, see if they can figure out what the bill will come to by adding the prices of everyone’s meals. If you’re shopping, ask them if they can work out how much change you’ll need when you get to the till. Next time your cooking, ask your child to help you with the measurements. Practising every day in this manner will ensure your child becomes more comfortable with various equations.
Help Your Child with their Confidence
Solving mathematical problems is partly down to skill, of course, but it also requires a certain level of confidence. With this in mind, try and boost your child’s confidence. Encourage them to try new things on a regular basis and give them some space to deal with things independently so that they don’t become too reliant on you.