For many parents, helping a child with maths homework can feel a little daunting—especially when teaching methods have changed so much over the years. But the good news is you don’t need to be a maths expert to support your child effectively. With a few simple strategies and a bit of encouragement, you can help build their confidence and make maths a more enjoyable subject at home, inspired by the teachings of this prep school in Surrey.
1. Make Maths Part of Everyday Life
One of the best ways to boost your child’s maths skills is to show them how it’s used in real life. Include them in activities like cooking (measuring ingredients), shopping (working out costs and change), or travelling (estimating journey times or reading timetables). These everyday situations help children see the value of maths and build practical skills without them even realising they’re learning.
2. Use Games and Online Tools
Maths doesn’t always have to come from textbooks. There are plenty of fun ways to practise skills through board games, card games, and apps. Games like Sudoku, Times Tables Rock Stars, or even classic games like Monopoly can sharpen logic and number skills. Look for UK-based educational websites that align with the national curriculum, such as BBC Bitesize or NRICH.
3. Encourage a Positive Attitude
Many children (and adults!) can feel anxious about maths, especially if they’ve struggled in the past. Try to keep things positive and avoid saying things like “I was never good at maths either”—this can reinforce the idea that it’s okay to give up. Instead, praise effort over results and remind them that making mistakes is part of the learning process.
4. Understand Their Methods
Maths teaching has evolved, and children today often learn different methods from the ones you were taught. Take time to understand how they’re learning at school—this might mean looking through their books or asking their teacher for guidance. Being consistent with school methods helps avoid confusion and builds their confidence.
5. Keep Sessions Short and Focused
If your child is finding a maths topic difficult, avoid long, stressful sessions. Instead, break it into smaller chunks and focus on one area at a time. A 10–15 minute burst can be more effective than an hour of frustration. Keep it light and celebrate small wins along the way.
6. Talk About Maths
Talking through problems can help children understand concepts more clearly. Ask them to explain how they solved something—even if it’s incorrect, you’ll get insight into their thinking. This also reinforces their understanding and gives you a chance to gently correct any misconceptions.
Supporting your child with maths doesn’t require special training—just patience, encouragement, and a willingness to learn alongside them. By making maths feel relevant, fun and manageable, you’ll not only help them improve their skills but also boost their confidence and enjoyment of the subject.
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