3 educators + story = math tips for parents
It’s hard to quantify exactly how many parents have ever wrung their hands in frustration over a child’s math homework. But, the number is probably pretty high. Using math terms, it’s likely greater than the sum of children in any given house divided by the number of parents.
But, that’s just an estimate.
New academic standards, and new approaches to teaching to those standards, have perplexed parents and students alike in recent months. Math problems have even gone viral on social media, as parents bemoan the new approaches.
Another Parent's 'Common-Core Math' Slam Goes Viral
The new standards focus on a deeper understanding of math concepts and a demonstration of reasoning, as opposed to memorization. While the correct answer is great, many of the newer math situations also require a specific method of solving the problem, situations that are new to students and parents.
Who struggles with Common Core math? Parents
But, there is hope. There are ways to help your children at home even if you don’t have the foggiest idea how they’re supposed to answer their math problems. Here are a few tips.
Let go
Even before new academic standards presented revolutionary approaches to math problems, students were learning differently than their parents did. Students are still learning math vertically, like previous generations, but they’re also learning math both linearly and visually. Offering support for innovation makes more of an impact on a child than reminiscing about the past.
Ask for an explanation
Turn the tables on your child and ask them to explain the problems to you. Let them talk out the method, even if you already understand it, and see what they say. If given the chance, they may talk themselves through the problem with little support from you.
Take it outside
If a child is struggling with a math concept, try lifting it off the paper. Find a way to demonstrate the situation in a way that will allow the child to see how that concept is used in real life. If they figure it out in tangible terms, they may be able to transfer the same reasoning back to their assignment.
Champion math
When given the opportunity, shine a light on math situations in every day life. It allows young learners to understand math’s importance, and it acts as a confidence booster when they apply their knowledge correctly. Ask children to determine the best deal at the grocery store, calculate a tip at a restaurant or use alternate measuring spoons when baking.
Don’t be afraid
Many parents sell themselves short when it comes to math skills, and then verbally express that lack of confidence to their kids. Be optimistic when your student hits a challenge, and work through it together, regardless of your decades-old math trauma. And, if the two of you can’t get it, reach out to the child’s teacher. After all, their goal is student success.
Karen Fullmer, Deanna Woerner and Steve Wilmot are the math team at Arizona Connections Academy.