It’s More Than Just Math

Okay parents…a question for you; how many of you enjoy doing math homework with your children?  Are you reluctant or do you want to jump right in?  Is it a fear of not being able to help them or do you just not have the time?  Well I just read an article this morning that gives some good insight into why parents should be engaging with their kids in Math.  The article is entitled “Parents need to Engage with Maths” by Rob Eastaway and Mike Askew.

If the bottom line is that parents should be engaging with their kids when doing math homework…then parents need to be prepared.  Here are some things that may help reluctant parents…

1.  Meet with your child’s teacher – get tips from them on how to help your child; what things to reinforce; you may even want to have your child’s teacher run through some of the problems with you (parents you may have to become to student).

2.  Set up a schedule – it always helps to have consistency and schedules so that everyone knows what is expected and when…don’t make Math random otherwise it may be perceived as something you just “try to fit in” when you can.  If it’s valuable and important enough then it deserves a permanent time and place in your day.

3.  Don’t be afraid of saying “I don’t know”.  I think your child will appreciate the honestly more than trying to pull the wool over their eyes.  As an adult, you can still help them to think logically using some type of problem solving process.  Look for example problems in their Math book than can help you to figure it out.  Problem solving itself is a very valuable skill.

4.  Enjoy your time! Don’t be hurried or rushed or try to multitask in your mind 10 other “to do” things.  Spend the time with your child, be present in the moment, and strengthen your communication and relationship with them.  Remember, they won’t be coming to you forever needing help or even wanting it so take advantage of the time that you can.

Your children are gifts from nature…don’t ever take them for granted.