Mathematics can sometimes be a challenging subject for children, but with the right approach, parents can make learning enjoyable and build confidence. Here are some top tips for helping your child succeed in maths.
Make Maths Fun
Supportive private school settings suggest that one of the most effective ways to support your child is to make maths enjoyable. Use games, puzzles, and apps that focus on mathematical skills. Board games like Monopoly or card games such as Uno can help children practice counting, strategy, and number recognition without realising they are learning. Turning maths into a game reduces anxiety and encourages a positive attitude towards the subject.
Use Everyday Situations
Incorporate maths into daily life to show your child its practical applications. Cooking is a great opportunity to practise measurements and fractions. Shopping can help with addition, subtraction, and understanding money. Even simple tasks like setting the table or telling the time encourage numerical thinking. By linking maths to real-world activities, children see its relevance and are more engaged.
Encourage a Growth Mindset
It is important for children to understand that making mistakes is part of learning. Encourage them to see challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. Phrases such as “You’re getting better every time” or “Mistakes help us learn” reinforce a growth mindset. When children feel safe to try, fail, and try again, their confidence and resilience in maths improve significantly.
Break Down Problems
Large or complex problems can feel overwhelming for children. Teach them to break questions down into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if they are tackling a multi-step word problem, help them identify what information is given and what they need to find out. Step-by-step approaches make difficult concepts more approachable and reduce frustration.
Use Visual Aids
Visual aids can help children understand abstract concepts. Number lines, charts, and diagrams are excellent tools for teaching addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Manipulatives like counters, beads, or blocks can also help children grasp concepts like place value and fractions. Visual learning reinforces understanding and can make tricky topics much clearer.
Set Aside Regular Practice Time
Consistent practice is key to building mathematical skills. Even 15–20 minutes a day can make a difference. Create a routine that fits around schoolwork and other activities. Short, focused sessions are often more effective than longer, less frequent ones. Encourage your child to practise regularly and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Seek Extra Support if Needed
If your child is struggling despite your support, consider additional resources. Tutoring, online lessons, or after-school maths clubs can provide personalised guidance. Schools may also offer extra support or resources tailored to your child’s needs. Seeking help early can prevent gaps in understanding and build long-term confidence.
Helping your child with maths doesn’t have to be stressful. By making learning fun, using real-life examples, encouraging a growth mindset, and practising regularly, you can support your child in developing both skills and confidence. With patience and creativity, maths can become a subject your child enjoys and excels in.
