Math class can be disliked by kids. Many of them report hating the subject. However, in most cases, it’s not that they hate math, but that they struggle with it. The negative feelings are often compounded over time, causing kids to feel less motivated to succeed in math or believe that they can understand it. Below, find out why some children dislike the subject, and how you can help your kid feel confident and happy doing math.

Why Do Some Kids Think They Don’t Like Math?

When they first take a math class, kids usually watch a teacher draw symbols and numbers on a board while explaining what to do with them and why. If the kid has difficulty understanding what’s happening and doesn’t receive individual attention from the teacher, their struggle will only grow with each introduction of a new concept. It helps to understand the foundations of math, as each branch is built upon another. It’s easy to become frustrated and feel like they hate math when they’re forced to move on to other levels before they’ve figured out earlier ones.

How Can You Help Your Child Love It?

Visual, tactile, and real-life examples may help math make sense to a kid who would otherwise be unable to see numbers as anything more than symbols. Rather than simply saying that two plus two equals four, have them group two pairs of gummy bears together and see that they make four. To comprehend that eight divided by two is four, they should split eight toys into two groups of four. 

Kids also need to internalize math outside of math class. Point out the math in everyday situations, like when you’re at the grocery store and need to calculate how many of each item you need on your list. When your kid talks about careers that they find interesting, mention the reasons why math can be helpful for those jobs. Play games that require math skills, like Yahtzee, Monopoly, chess, or backgammon. You can also encourage your kid to read fictional books that use math.

Most importantly, kids need to be given the time and space to work one-on-one with their math class instructors and parents. Like with sports and the arts, math requires ample practice to become proficient with a specific concept before trying to learn another one. Mastering one level can help a kid feel excited about learning another.

To help your child get the most out of their math class, the tutoring service at Mathnasium of South Windsor in Connecticut won’t just show your child how to do their homework, but they’ll dedicate themselves to addressing the source of your child’s struggles. Through building a mutually trusting instructor and student partnership, these math tutors will give your child the tools they need to understand and love all kinds of math. They’re also happy to aid with SAT prep. Learn more about their methods by calling (860) 432-7794 or checking them out online.