Author: The Dropkick Math Team

Categories
Online Math Tutor

How Involved Should A Parent Be In Their Child’s Education

How Involved Should A Parent Be In Their Child’s Education

Think about how important your child’s education is – it sets the foundation for their future. As a parent, you want to do everything you can to have every opportunity and help them succeed in school. But what is the right level of involvement? How much should you help with homework, and when should you let your child take the lead? This can be a tricky balance, but we’ll give you some tips on how to find the right balance for your family.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to these questions – it depends on your child’s individual needs and your family dynamic. But some general guidelines can help you figure out the best level of involvement for your child. 

A Lasting Impact

Parents and extended families have the most direct and lasting impact on children’s learning. They also play a key role in supporting their education. A child’s early years are crucial for their development, and parents play a central role in supporting their child’s learning during this time. Research has shown that when parents are involved in their children’s education, they are more engaged with their school work, stay in school longer, and achieve better learning outcomes. This also translates into longer-term economic and social benefits. 

Parents can support their children’s education by helping with homework, attending school events, and communicating with teachers. By taking an active role in their children’s education, parents can help ensure their children reach their full potential.

Be A Role Model

As role models, parents can inspire their children to develop a love of learning. When parents show excitement about learning new things and taking on new challenges, it can rub off on their children. Parents can also empower their children by sharing their own educational journeys with them. By being open about the difficulties and triumphs they’ve experienced, parents can help their children develop a growth mindset and see setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Ultimately, parents remain an important part of their children’s education, even as their role evolves over time.

Too Much Involvement

Although involvement and being a great role model can set your child up for success, too much involvement can actually be detrimental to their education. If you are constantly hovering and helping with every little thing, your child may not learn how to be independent and take initiative. This can lead to problems later on when they need to take more responsibility for their education in high school and college. So how can you find the right balance?

First, consider your child’s age and developmental stage. For younger children, you’ll likely need to be more involved in their education. This means helping them with homework, keeping up with their progress at school, and communicating with their teachers. As your child gets older and becomes more independent, you can start to back off a bit and let them take the lead. 

It can also depend on your child’s personality – some kids need more help than others. If you’re not sure, talk to their teacher. They will have a good sense of how much support your child needs and can give you specific advice. Every family is different, and what works for one parent and child may not work for another. Most importantly, you want what’s best for your child and their education. With a little trial and error, you’ll find what level of involvement works best for your family.

Homework

Parents need to strike the right balance when helping their children with homework. If parents do too much, they can start to take over, and the child may become reliant on them. On the other hand, if parents don’t do enough, the child may become frustrated and give up. A good rule of thumb is to spend a few nights a week working with your elementary school-aged child on their homework. This will give you a chance to provide assistance without taking over. Being respectful of your child’s teachers and methods is also important. They are the experts, after all! In short, parental involvement in homework can be beneficial, but it is essential not to go overboard.

Meeting With Teachers

As we mentioned earlier, it can be helpful to meet with your child’s teachers to understand how they learn in a classroom setting. However, constantly consulting with teachers can make children feel as though they are always under their parent’s thumb. While it is helpful to meet with teachers to understand how they learn in a classroom setting, parents should also give their children some independence when it comes to their education. This will help them to develop responsibility and self-advocacy skills. In addition, parents should encourage their children to speak up for themselves if they have any concerns about their education. By teaching their children how to advocate for themselves, parents can help them to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Level Of Involvement

Parents should not always be present for their children in order to allow them to absorb the lessons of life. If parents are too involved, they may hinder their child’s ability to grow independently. On the other hand, if parents are not involved enough, their children may struggle to thrive academically and socially. The key is to find a balance that works for both the parent and the child. By doing so, parents can set the stage for a successful future for their children.

As part of our program at Dropkick Math, we invite the parent into the learning environment. This can help parents balance their involvement in their child’s education. We believe that it is important for parents to understand the math curriculum their child is learning so they can help if needed. However, they also need to learn when to back away so their child can continue to grow on their own. 

Our Math Programs

Our math programs in Toronto and the surrounding areas offer an alternative to traditional online math tutors. We provide a fun way to help your child thrive in mathematics through self-learning. We work with your child and yourself to understand the underlying problems rather than just focusing on helping them through the material they are learning at school.

If your child is struggling with math, don’t spend any more time searching for “math tutor near me.” Our certified Ontario teachers are currently accepting students for their programs this summer and into the fall session. 

For more information about our program and how we get the parent/guardian involved, visit our website today!

Categories
Math During Pandemic

How Children Are Still Being Impacted By The Pandemic

How Children Are Still Being Impacted By The Pandemic

The pandemic is starting to feel like a distant memory for many people, but for children, the effects are still being felt. Although the pandemic is waning and schools are gradually reopening, the educational landscape has been irrevocably changed. For parents, it can be hard to know how to help their children make up for lost time and ensure they don’t fall behind. 

Pandemic Fatigue

Over the last two and half years, many adults have struggled with the ever-changing world. So, imagine how our children must be feeling. Overall, children are poorly equipped to deal with the uncertainties of the pandemic. They have lacked the developmental stimulation of their peers, teachers, neighbours, and extra-curricular activities. They do not have the emotional experience to grapple with changing rules, vaccination mandates, and constraints, much less the politically charged messages that are front and center of every newspaper and program. The result of all this upheaval and uncertainty is pandemic fatigue. Pandemic fatigue can include lethargy, lack of focus, foggy-headedness, and general malaise, all of which are causing children to struggle in school. 

Working Independently

Now that children are back in classrooms and ready to learn, teachers are starting to notice some effects lingering from the pandemic. For one, the effects of at-home learning through virtual classes are becoming more apparent. Children need to learn how to work on tasks independently, but they have become too relaxed in their education since missing classes over the past couple of years. Many educators are finding it challenging to keep students’ attention for long periods of time. 

While students were learning at home, they had a lot of time to learn independently, but many of them who were not supervised didn’t use the time wisely. This means they have learned to become easily distracted and relaxed while working towards a task independently. This has become apparent in their academic performance now they are back in the classroom. It is becoming evident that this distractive behaviour is becoming a possible stumbling block on the way to getting educated. Children need to learn how to work independently but in a structured environment where they learn to stay on task.

Mental Health

As uncertainty spread across the globe with cases of COVID-19 rapidly rising, children were suddenly thrust into a scary world. They would hear parents and teachers talk about the pandemic, and they could no longer get together with friends for playtime. 

The mental health effects of the pandemic have been well reported in the adult population. However, many people forget that children were also heavily impacted by the pandemic. Not only were they trying to navigate their new world in the pandemic, but they were also suffering the downstream effect of their parents’ strain during this time. This effect on their mental health has become apparent as counsellors report more children than ever reaching out for mental health support. 

As stated in Psychology Today, “Parental and school involvement is critical in addressing the crisis of children’s mental health head-on.” This means that it is the responsibility of every school board to create an environment for children who may be struggling to get the help they need. The government has recently set up Ontario’s Learning Recovery Action Plan to help students caught in the midst of the global disruption. 

Confidence

It is well known that confidence is key in nearly every aspect of life. We see confident people succeed in their careers, make friends easily and overall, just enjoy life more. It’s no wonder that parents want their children to be confident. Unfortunately, the pandemic has affected the way children build their confidence.  

Interacting with other children is a great way for kids to learn social skills and develop confidence. Playing games, joining clubs or even just talking to other kids at school helps them build self-esteem and learn how to interact with the world around them. Through the pandemic, many children could not see their friends, which led to fewer opportunities to meet and mingle with their peers. This lack of interaction has affected many children and left them feeling less confident. 

Education is another important factor in building confidence. As children learn more about themselves and the world around them, they become more comfortable in their own skin. Again, with limited in-person classes, children had less opportunities to build their confidence through group work, praise from teachers, and peer interaction. 

The Impact on Mathematics

Through just these few examples, it is easy to see that this challenging time for students has left a mark on their well-being and education. As far as education goes, mathematics has been found to be the most affected than any other subject over the past couple of years. Many students have slipped backward, losing the skill or knowledge they once had. They have also simply learned less than they would in previous years, which has led to unfinished learning. 

Compared to reading, declines in math have been found to be more significant and seen more in younger grades. Early learning experts are sounding the alarm that the youngest learners are the most affected, and there is a need for help to fill in those learning gaps they may be experiencing. 

Addressing The Problems

With the lasting effects of the pandemic on our children, it is vital to start addressing these problems. Here at Dropkick Math, we understand the constraints that have been put on our children over the past two and half years. We are a team of Ontario-certified teachers who are committed to students’ success in achieving competency in mathematics. 

As one of the fastest-growing programs in Ontario aimed at addressing the education gap experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dropkick Math addresses deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. We have developed math programs that use centred research-based techniques and strategies designed to complement existing lessons to facilitate students reaching their highest potential in mastering mathematics.

Our math learning techniques involve fun, engaging games that create a “math playground” that will entice any child to want to join in. We have also developed our programs to involve the parent or caregiver. This helps to foster a relationship between child and parent to help boost confidence and set a foundation for more learning at home. 

For more information about our programs or to start your child with our FREE assessment, visit our website today!

Categories
Learn Math

How To Prepare Your Child For Their Future

It’s a daunting task, preparing your child for their future. But it’s a responsibility that all parents face. No one can predict the future, but by taking some simple steps now, you can help ensure that your child is on a path to success when it comes to their education and beyond. 

In a world that is increasingly reliant on technology, math skills are more important than ever. With the globalization of the workforce, many jobs now require math skills in order to be successful. In addition, higher math skills are often required on standardized tests to be eligible for certain colleges or programs. As a result, parents must become actively involved in helping their children excel in math. There are many ways parents can help their children improve their math skills. Here we will discuss some simple steps that can be taken to help children who may be struggling with math and set them up for their future. 

A Strong Education

As children enter school, they are faced with a whole new range of subjects to learn. Among these is mathematics, which is often seen as one of the most important. That’s because a strong foundation in math is essential for success in many other areas. For instance, children who have difficulty with basic arithmetic are likely to struggle when they reach higher levels of math, such as algebra and geometry. Additionally, children who don’t develop good problem-solving skills in math may have trouble in other subjects that require those skills, such as science and social studies. That’s why it’s crucial for parents to ensure their children receive a strong math education at school. Parents can help set them up for success in school and beyond by providing a solid foundation in math.

Learning Starts At Home

As any parent knows, children are constantly learning. They take in new information and experiences from the moment they are born. And while much of their early learning takes place in the classroom, studies have shown that parents play a critical role in their children’s education. 

A recent study from researchers at the University of Toronto, found that children whose parents provided them with extra help with their math education at home were more likely than those who did not receive such assistance to get higher grades.

While the study did not specifically examine why this is the case, it is likely that receiving extra help with math at home gives children a better foundation for building their skills and knowledge. In addition, children who receive assistance from their parents with their math homework are likely to feel more confident in their abilities and be more motivated to succeed. As a result, parents who want to set their children up for success in the future should make sure to provide them with extra help and practise with their math education at home.

Math Clubs And Competitions

A love of math can open up a world of opportunities for children. It can provide them with the critical thinking skills they need to succeed in school and in their future careers. For parents who want their children to excel, encouraging them to participate in math-related enrichment activities is a great way to get them excited about the subject. Math clubs and competitions are a great way for children to socialize with others who share their mathematics interests. They can also help children develop important problem-solving skills. In addition, participating in these activities can give children a sense of accomplishment and pride. As a result, parents who want their children to succeed should encourage them to seek out math-related enrichment activities.

Taking An Active Role

Parents can help ensure that their children have the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century by taking an active role in their children’s math education. If your child is struggling with mathematics, getting involved is even more important. This may be the time to invest in a math intervention program that can help fill in any learning gaps they are experiencing. But don’t just Google, “Math tutor near me.” Take time to research different educational options and programs. With so many choices available today, it’s essential to do your homework and find the right fit for your child. Talk to friends and family, check out online resources, or schedule consultations with schools or tutoring centers to learn more about what’s available. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe the relationships between parent, student, and educator are key to achieving mastery in mathematics. With this objective in mind, our experienced educators will help facilitate a parent’s understanding of mathematics so they can adequately support their child’s journey to excelling in elementary mathematics. Lasting success is achieved by learning together!

Foster A Love Of Learning

Encourage your child to take an interest in learning. Help foster a love of learning at an early age by reading books together, participating in educational activities outside of school, and challenging them with engaging games. If children understand that learning can be enjoyable, they will continue on in life, eager to learn and succeed. 

At Dropkick Math, we create a fun and dynamic educational environment through engaging games and interactive learning tools. This way of learning encourages children to enjoy the process of education and help them to want to continue with their studies even outside of school. 

If your child struggles with math or is showing a gap in learning caused by missed school from the pandemic, we can help! Our innovative programs focus on the fundamental misunderstandings children may have in math and provide them with the skills they need to keep advancing to the next level of competency. By focusing on math concepts such as number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning, our engaging programs help students fully understand the base fundamentals of mathematics. To learn more about our programs, visit our website today.

Categories
Online Math Tutor

Should Your Child Try “Free” Tutoring?

Should Your Child Try “Free” Tutoring

We all want the best for our children, and that often includes ensuring they have the best education possible. But in today’s economy, many families are also looking for ways to reduce expenses. One option that is often considered is hiring a free tutor. But would free tutoring be a good option for your family? Before hiring a tutor, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of free tutoring first.

Do Your Research

Parents want what is best for their children, and that includes getting a good education. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education, and many parents are looking for ways to give their children a leg up in these subject areas. One option that has become increasingly popular is hiring a math tutor. However, not all tutors are created equal. It is important to do your research and learn about each program before committing to anything. 

Children, math tutor, free. These are all words that, on the surface, seem to go together. After all, what could be more appealing than getting a free math tutor for your child? However, you should consider a few things before taking advantage of free tutoring services. First of all, while the service may be free, it’s important to remember that you usually get what you pay for. The quality of the instruction may not be as high as you would get from a paid tutor. Additionally, free tutors may not be as reliable as paid ones. They may not be able to commit to regular sessions or may cancel at the last minute. This can be frustrating for children who are trying to learn and make progress. 

Traditional free math tutoring often only offers help to students in a “Band-Aid style” format, fixing only any miscomprehension of current lessons. This does not address the root cause of misunderstanding mathematical calculations, which may lead to students left feeling frustrated or even ultimately defeated down the line. Most free tutors will most likely not provide children with focused learning so they will never get to the root of their misunderstanding. 

Finally, free tutors may not have the same level of experience or qualifications as paid tutors. While they may be passionate about math, they may not have the same expertise as someone who has been formally trained in teaching children. So while free tutoring sounds like a great opportunity, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. By taking the time to do your homework, you can ensure that you find a tutor who will help your child succeed in math.

Our “Free” Programs

At Dropkick Math, we are proud partners with some of Ontario’s school boards. This means that we are able to offer free programs to students in participating school boards as part of Ontario’s Learning Recovery Action Plan For Students. The plan is designed to help students who have been struggling in school catch up and get back on track. It invests heavily in tutoring support and includes summer learning, a focus on reading, math and other foundational skills, as well as targeted initiatives intended to address unique barriers that some students may face.

So, yes, students who are eligible for this program can enroll in Dropkick Math Academy for free, since it is funded by the Ontario government. Since this is a government-funded initiative, the programs offered through the Learning Recovery Action Plan are the same ones provided for other students who may not be part of the school boards who are participating. There are no shortened modules or missing information. Our programs are all the same whether your child comes to us through the Learning Recovery Action Plan or not. 

How We Differ

At Dropkick Math, our programs are designed specifically around closing gaps due to missed learning. We differ from traditional tutors by focusing on the critical learning gaps and using modern innovative teaching techniques to address deficiencies while correcting any underlying misunderstood formulas. 

We also aren’t just an alternative to hiring a free tutor. We offer fun and exciting math help services as a way for students to thrive in mathematics. Our innovative programs use engaging games to focus on the fundamental misunderstandings children may have in math and provide them with the skills they need to keep advancing to the next level of competency. By focusing on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning), our programs help students fully understand the base fundamentals of mathematics. At the conclusion of our Waterloo math services program, students can persevere through vigorous math challenges, ask questions for clarification, and learn from valuable mistakes.

Build Confidence

Mathematics can be a challenge for many students of all ages. Dropkick Math aims to break down those challenges and build confidence with a complete understanding of math and its relationship to real-world situations through a fun and engaging learning environment. By making math fun and engaging, children will want to participate and learn more, setting themselves up for a future built on success. 

Get started today by learning more about our programs and having your child complete the free assessment.

Categories
Pillars of Math

What Are The Four Pillars Of Math?

What Are The Four Pillars Of Math

The Four Pillars of Math are four concepts that are essential for students to understand in order to be successful in math. These pillars are: number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning. By mastering these four fundamental concepts,  students will be able to solve any problem they encounter in math. In addition, the four pillars of math provide a strong foundation for students to build upon as they move on to more advanced concepts.

The Foundation Of Our Program

At Dropkick Math Academy, the foundation of our math tutoring program focuses on the four pillars of math. These four pillars are essential building blocks for understanding higher-level math concepts. We focus on one or more of these pillars throughout our program in each module. For example, in our first module, Operations, Whole Numbers, and Pirates, we focus heavily on developing a conceptual understanding of both number and operational sense. Without a strong understanding of these operations, it would be impossible to move on to more complex topics like algebra. However, we also touch on the other three pillars in this module. For instance, we use proportional reasoning to explore place value. By the end of the module, students have a well-rounded foundation in arithmetic and are prepared to move on to more advanced modules.

The Four Pillars Of Math

Let’s take a closer look at each of the four pillars:

Number Sense

Number sense is understanding the quantity represented by a number. It is not the same as numeracy, which is the ability to do calculations. Number sense develops gradually. For example, a baby starts by recognizing that they see one person or two people. By the time they start school, they can count up to 20 or more. They learn what numbers mean in terms of amounts and quantities. This knowledge forms the foundation for learning more complex math concepts later on. 

Fractions are an excellent example of a concept that builds on number sense. In order to understand fractions, students need to be able to visualize the quantity represented by a number. For example, if there are four pieces of candy and I eat two of them, then I have eaten half of the candy. Fractions are a way of representing numbers that are not whole numbers, and understanding fractions requires a strong foundation in number sense. 

Operational Sense

Operational sense is a critical math concept that refers to a child’s ability to make sense of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and use them in problem-solving situations. When a child is able to develop a strong understanding of the operations, they can recognize the relationships among them and develop systems for computing numbers. This understanding helps to form the basis for the four pillars of math.

Operational sense is not just about being able to do the computations but about understanding when and how to use them. For example, a child who knows that addition can be used to find out how many objects are in a group but does not understand that it can also be used to put together two groups of objects has not yet developed operational sense. Operational sense is a critical foundation for success in math, and children who develop a strong understanding of the operations are well on their way to becoming math problem-solvers.

Proportional Reasoning

Proportional reasoning is a unifying theme in mathematics and is often considered the foundation of abstract mathematical understanding. All four pillars connect to proportional reasoning. For example, in whole numbers, students learn about place value which is based on 10s. In decimals, place value is based on 10s with an added number after the decimal point. In fractions, there are different parts of a whole, and students use visual representations to help understand the relationships between those parts. Lastly, in percentages, there are hundredths and relationships are represented out of 100. 

By making connections to prior learning, students see that proportional reasoning is everywhere in mathematics! Proportional reasoning is not just a process but rather it’s a way of looking at the world and solving problems. In essence, proportional reasoning is the consideration of numbers in relative terms compared to absolute terms.

Algebraic Reasoning

Patterns are all around us. They can be found in the seasons, the way leaves grow on a tree, and the numbers we use every day. Understanding patterns is an essential mathematical skill that helps us to make sense of the world around us. 

Algebraic reasoning is a way of thinking that uses mathematics to solve problems and understand relationships. It is an essential skill that is introduced in the early years of learning and continues to play an increasingly important role through grades 4 to 9.

Algebraic reasoning can be used to solve problems in a variety of ways, including by using algebraic equations, graphing, and creating tables and charts. It is a powerful tool that can help us to understand complex ideas and make predictions about the future. By understanding algebraic reasoning, we can better understand the world around us and our place within it.

Learning Skills

The approach used in Dropkick Math Academy teaches children certain skills along with the four pillars to set them up for success in their future education. These include:

Concepts – Concepts are the building blocks of math. If students don’t understand the basic concepts, they’ll struggle to progress. That’s why we focus on teaching concepts in a way that is clear and easy to understand. We want students to really grasp the material so they can build on it later.

Fluency – Fluency is about being able to do math accurately. It’s important for students to be able to recall math facts and equations quickly so they can focus on solving problems. We use a variety of techniques to help students improve their fluency, including games and practice with real-world applications.

Problem-solving – Problem-solving is an essential skill for all students, not just those interested in math or science. Breaking down a problem and finding a solution is a valuable life skill that will serve students well no matter what path they choose. We encourage students to approach problem-solving with confidence and to persevere when they find themselves stuck.

Mastering The Four Pillars

The Dropkick Math team is committed to helping students master the Four Pillars of Math. We believe that this is the best way to set students up for success in their math education. We have created a variety of resources, such as articles, videos, and games, that all focus on helping students understand and master these four concepts and better understand math operations. Visit our website today to start exploring these resources and learn more about our math help services. By taking our FREE assessment, your child can begin to build a strong foundation in math!

Categories
Online Math Tutor

How Technology Will Play A Large Role In The Future Of Education

How Technology Will Play A Large Role In The Future Of Education

As technology advances at an alarming rate, it’s no secret that its influence is being felt in all aspects of life, including education. While there are some who may be apprehensive about how technology will change the educational landscape, there are many reasons to believe that it will play a large role in the future of education. Some of the advantages that technology brings to the table include increased access to information, opportunities for personalized learning, and more efficient ways of communicating and sharing ideas. As more schools embrace digital learning tools and strategies, parents can feel confident that their children are getting the best possible education.

How Education is Changing

As parents, we want what is best for our children. We hope that they will have opportunities to succeed in whatever they choose to do in life. One of the most important things we can do for our children is to provide them with a good education. In the past, this has meant sending them to a traditional school where they are taught in a classroom setting. However, with the advent of technology, the way that education is delivered is changing. 

Technology has always been a part of education, but it was usually reserved for special classes or for students who needed extra help. However, technology has become a front and centre effort to keep classrooms running with the pandemic outbreak. From Zoom calls to Google Classroom, technology has allowed educators to continue teaching even when they can’t be in the same room as their students. And while there have been some challenges associated with this transition, overall, it has been a positive experience for both students and teachers. With the use of technology, students have been able to stay engaged in their learning and continue making progress even during a time of upheaval.

In addition, there are now a variety of online resources that students can use to supplement their learning. While technology cannot replace the in-person classroom experience, it can be used as a positive way to help students learn.

Future Occupations

It is no secret that the world is constantly changing and that change is only accelerating. With new technologies and industries emerging all the time, it can be hard to keep up. This is especially true when it comes to children and their future occupations. A recent study by the World Economic Forum estimates that 65% of children entering primary school will find themselves in careers that today do not even exist. This is a staggering statistic that highlights just how important it is for children to be adaptable and open-minded when learning technology. While it may be scary to think about, it also presents an exciting opportunity for children to forge their own path in the world. As long as they can embrace change and learn new things, they will be well-positioned to succeed in whatever the future may hold.

Technology In Education

Technology has always been an integral part of education, from the chalkboard to the overhead projector. However, the future of technology in education is poised to have a much more profound impact on how students learn. As students become more comfortable with digital tools and resources, teachers are able to expand beyond linear, text-based learning to engage students who learn best in other ways. For example, students who are visual learners can benefit from using video and graphic applications to explore new concepts. Similarly, students who are auditory learners can use audio recordings and podcasts to supplement their understanding of course material. By harnessing the power of technology, teachers can create a more dynamic and engaging learning environment that better meets the needs of all students.

The future of technology in education can also be used to improve communication. Technology can help students connect with each other and with their instructors in new ways. For example, students can use video conferencing to participate in class discussions from anywhere in the world. They can also use online chat rooms to collaborate on group projects. In addition, students can use technology to research topics more effectively. With a few clicks of a mouse, they can access a wealth of information that would otherwise be unavailable to them. As a result, technology has the potential to improve the quality of education significantly.

Some of the technology that students will see in the not-so-distant future may involve:

Social media – Allowing students and educators to post ideas and comments in an interactive learning environment. Also, students may follow influencers and learn from their posts. 

Simulation and models – Digital simulations and models can help teachers explain difficult concepts. Software is currently being developed to help students understand evolution, a simulation of how electrons interact with matter and much more!

Assessments – With new technology, teachers can collect real-time assessment data from their students. They will better understand how far along each student is, how much time a student spends on each question and whether their answers are correct. 

Games – Technology in the classroom will include commercial game-like simulations that put students in professional roles like journalist, city planner, or engineer and ask them to solve real-world problems. Some teachers believe that by simulating real-life problems, video games can bring about behavioural changes in the students by making them more goal-oriented.

Virtual Reality – With many brands of virtual reality offering innovative learning resources, educators are exploring the idea of it being capable of immersing students in their chosen subject and helping them to learn. 

Interactive Textbooks – Technology is changing the way we think of textbooks. Future interactive textbooks may have web-based sites that include videos, animations, assessments and other materials that can support the learning of new content. 

Online Resources

Here at Dropkick Math Academy, we are proud to be one of the online resources born during the pandemic that can help children facing a gap in learning. As a group of Ontario Certified teachers, we saw the need for more resources for children aged 9 – 15, and decided to take action. Our programs focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning) and provide support in learning key math skills by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian.

Math is a subject that requires confidence and certainty. Without it, students can become overwhelmed and quickly give up. That’s why our math programs are designed to turn uncertainty into confidence. As students navigate through the program, they’ll be rewarded with incentives to keep them engaged and eager to continue learning. With each successful math operation solved, your child’s confidence will grow, giving them the skills they need to succeed for years to come.

Math education has evolved over the years, and with the continued access to technology in the classroom and at home, it is changing even more. Learn more about our math help services and how we differ from traditional math tutoring services. Get started by having your child take our FREE assessment today!

Categories
Learn Math

Are You Praising Your Child Wrong?

Are You Praising Your Child Wrong

It’s natural for parents to want to shower their children with praise. After all, we want them to feel good about themselves and be successful in life, right? But new research shows that we might be doing more harm than good with our constant compliments. Turns out, praising kids about how smart they are can actually backfire, leading to increased anxiety and lower self-esteem. So, what’s a parent to do? Learn how and when to give authentic praise to help your child thrive.

How Could It Do Harm?

You may be wondering how praising your child could do any harm. But, the way the praise is given and the consistency matter a lot when dealing with a child struggling with academics. Praise is a powerful tool in motivating children and can help them feel competent and confident, encouraging them to persevere in the face of challenges. However, praise also has the potential to do more harm than good. If praise is focused on a child’s ability or results, it can create a fixed mindset where children believe that their intelligence or talent is the only reason for their success. This can lead to children feeling discouraged when encountering difficulties, as they believe their lack of ability is to blame.

On the other hand, praise that focuses on a child’s effort can foster a growth mindset, where children believe that their abilities can be developed through hard work and practice. This type of praise encourages children to keep trying even when they encounter setbacks, as they know they can improve. As a result, praising a child’s effort is more likely to promote long-term success than praising their ability or results.

A recent study looked at the effect of praise on children, specifically how they are praised from ages 1 to 3. Five years later, the researchers measured the children’s mindset. It was found that the more the parents praised the process (effort, not intelligence) in their younger years, the more likely they were to have a growth mindset five years later. 

What To Say?

Saying things to your child like “you are so smart” may seem like a good idea, but it can ultimately set them up for challenges later if they begin to struggle. If they have repeatedly been told that they are smart, they may lack perseverance when math no longer comes easy to them. And this day will come. Even if your child sails through math concepts with no problems, more difficult equations will likely start to slow them down once they start getting older. 

You will want to praise your child with phrases such as “Great job putting in the effort to show your work on your test,” or “I am so happy you took your time on that problem and didn’t give up!” Praise their time management, effort, and persistence. Do not praise their intellect. Before praising your child, a good rule of thumb is to ask yourself, “Does this encourage learning, growth, and the ability to accept challenges?”.

Letting Your Child Struggle

When children are faced with a challenging problem, they should productively struggle to come to the answer. This allows them to take time to solve the problem and look at their mistakes along the way to learn from them. Letting your child struggle productively with helpful praise will help them in the long run. 

Children who feel comfortable struggling in a productive way may take a break but will ultimately come back to the problem and attempt new strategies until a solution is identified. 

On the other hand, children who enter the destructive struggle zone often run out of strategies and no longer believe they can solve the problem. Once a child doubts their ability, they no longer care to solve the problem. This is where reinforcing praise for a child’s effort can come in. 

Encouraging a child to take risks, fail, and learn from their mistakes is all part of good praise. At some point in life, we are all going to fail at something. But powering through failure and sadness is how to experience success. Homework is a great place to encourage your child into a productive struggle so they can handle future problems with ease. 

One of the most challenging things for students to do in school is to develop confidence and comfort with math. That’s why our programs are designed specifically around closing skill gaps while supporting them through their learning so they feel more confident. If your child continues to struggle with math, our programs may be able to help.

All of our programs are taught by certified Ontario teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. We focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning). 

Involving The Parent/Guardian

At Dropkick Math, we offer a unique learning environment that gives the option of involving the parent/caregiver. We believe the relationships between parent, student, and educator are crucial to achieving mastery in mathematics and that learning together achieves lasting success!  Part of this learning environment involves praising a child in their efforts and encouraging a fun and engaging atmosphere. 

So, before you start searching for “math tutor near me,” check out our unique programs that will help build your child’s confidence and set them up for long-term success.  

Categories
Online Math Tutor

What Is Summer Slide And How To Prevent It

What Is Summer Slide And How To Prevent It

What is summer slide? You may have heard this term being tossed around, but what does it really mean? Summer slide is the term used to describe the loss of knowledge and skills a student suffers over the summer. This can be due to a lack of academic enrichment opportunities over the break or simply because children are out of school and not retaining what they learned during the school year. 

While no definitive studies show how much learning is lost each summer, it’s safe to assume that students lose some ground academically if they don’t engage in educational activities. Through math tutoring and other interventions, parents can take steps to help prevent summer slide and keep their child’s education on track.

A Loss Of Skills And Knowledge

For decades, educators have observed the summer slide – the inevitable loss of skills and knowledge that occurs over the summer break. While students may enter the classroom in September seeming refreshed and relaxed, they quickly fall behind their classmates who have continued to learn and grow over the summer months. The summer slide is a pervasive problem that affects children of all backgrounds and abilities.

Studies have shown that, on average, students lose about 2.6 months of grade-level math skills over the summer. As a result, they enter the new school year at a distinct disadvantage. While efforts to combat the summer slide are ongoing, there is still much work to be done in order to close the achievement gap.

What To Do About Summer Slide

As any parent knows, summer can be a challenging time for kids when it comes to schoolwork. With all the distractions of warm weather and long days, it’s easy for kids to forget what they’ve learned during the school year and fall behind before the next school year begins. Unfortunately, summer slide is also being exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. Due to school closures and continuing distance learning, many children struggle to keep up with their studies. This has led to a decline in grades and test scores and an increased risk of future academic difficulties. As parents and educators work to address this problem, it’s essential to remember that the COVID pandemic has created unique challenges for kids that require innovative solutions. 

Children need to have continuous opportunities to learn and practice new skills during the summer months. Summer learning programs can allow children to stay sharp academically while also preventing them from falling behind. These programs often include activities and games designed to reinforce key academic concepts. They can be an excellent way for children to stay engaged in learning, even when they’re out of school. With a bit of creativity and effort, we can help our kids overcome the effects of summer slide and the pandemic and get back on track for a successful school year.

Learn While Vacationing

As summer approaches, many families begin to plan their vacations. However, vacations can also be a learning opportunity. For example, if you are planning a trip by airplane, your child can research the cost of airfare and luggage weight. If you are staying in a hotel, your child can calculate the cost of the room per night. Once you reach your destination, there are often opportunities to take tours of historical landmarks and locations. This can be an excellent opportunity to teach your child about history and how to calculate the number of years ago historical events occurred. By incorporating some educational elements into your summer vacation plans, you can help your child learn and grow even while away from school.

Incorporate Everyday Tasks

There are lots of easy ways to keep kids’ brains active during summer vacation. One way is to take advantage of everyday activities like grocery shopping or driving. For example, when you’re at the grocery store with your kids, challenge them to add up the total cost of your purchase. Driving over to grandmother’s house? Ask them to find specific colours, shapes, or patterns along the way. For older kids, think of appropriate variations – for instance, they could try to count all the license plates from different provinces or how many billboards there are. This helps to keep their minds active and makes these everyday activities more fun for everyone involved. By making summer learning fun and interactive, you can help your kids stay sharp all summer long.

Summer Camp

As the summer break approaches, many parents begin to scramble to find ways to keep their children occupied. One option that is becoming increasingly popular is enrolling children in specialized summer camps. These camps offer a variety of activities that are designed to be both fun and educational. For example, computer camps often incorporate game design elements, while math camps focus on developing problem-solving skills. Science camps may include field trips to local museums or zoos. 

In addition to being educational, these camp experiences can also be extremely valuable for your child’s social development. By interacting with other children and adults in a structured setting, your child will learn important social skills that will benefit them throughout their life. So, if you’re looking for an opportunity to give your child a boost this summer, consider enrolling them in one of these specialized camps.

Summer Programs

While kids need to have some time off from school to enjoy the summer months, it’s also crucial that they don’t forget everything they’ve learned over the course of the year. Thankfully, there are several math help services available to help kids stay sharp. Schools often offer summer classes or enrichment programs, and private businesses like Dropkick Math Academy also provide valuable services. These programs can help your child review essential concepts, catch up on any gaps in their learning, and get a head start on the upcoming school year. With summer learning, your child can enjoy a well-rounded education that sets them up for success both in and out of the classroom.

Our Program

This summer, if your child is struggling and you find yourself searching for such phrases as “math for grade 3” or “how to help my child this summer,” we may be able to help. At Dropkick Math, we provide high-quality tutoring services that help students achieve their academic goals. Whether your child needs extra help with fractions or is struggling with algebra, our team of certified Ontario teachers can provide the targeted instruction and support needed to succeed in mathematics. Our math learning techniques include online group sessions and engaging games that will have your child wanting to learn more. 

Learn more about our programs today!

Categories
Learn Math

Why Spatial Reasoning Is So Important For Mathematics

Why Spatial Reasoning Is So Important For Mathematics

Do you remember the first time you solved a puzzle? The satisfaction of completing it and finally understanding how all the pieces fit together was an amazing feeling. As parents, we want to give our children the best opportunities for success in life, and part of that includes helping them develop strong problem-solving skills such as those that accomplish finishing a puzzle. 

One skill that is essential for mathematical success is spatial reasoning. Developing this ability at an early age can set your child up for future academic achievement and it can even predict students’ later success in higher levels of mathematics, such as proportional thinking and algebraic reasoning. Keep reading to learn more about why spatial reasoning is so important for children’s mathematics and what you can do to help them excel in this area. 

What Is Spatial Reasoning?

The ability to reason spatially is a fundamental human skill that allows us to make sense of the world around us. Spatial reasoning skills are used when we navigate our environment, manipulate objects, or even daydream. Although we are often not consciously aware of it, spatial reasoning is essential for everyday life.

There are many different types of spatial reasoning tasks, but they all involve mental manipulation of 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional images. For example, a common spatial reasoning task is mental rotation, which requires imagining how an object would look if it were rotated in space. Another type of spatial reasoning task is mental folding, which involves folding a 2-dimensional image in your mind to visualize a 3-dimensional object.

Spatial reasoning skills develop throughout childhood and continue to improve into adulthood. However, some people are naturally better at spatial reasoning than others. One’s ability to reason spatially can also be affected by factors such as fatigue, stress, and boredom. Spatial reasoning skills can be improved with practice, so there’s no need to worry if your child doesn’t seem naturally gifted in this area. With a little bit of practice, anyone can become better at spatial reasoning.

Math Is More Than Numbers

When most people think of math, they think of numbers. However, math is so much more than that. It encompasses spatial reasoning, pattern recognition, and other important skills. For kids, this can be a lot to take in. They may get bored quickly if they think math is just about numbers. However, when they are exposed to spatial reasoning tasks and toys, they suddenly become interested in learning more. They may even choose to play with math materials during their free time. 

Spatial reasoning is a key part of math education and it can be very engaging for kids. By exposing them to spatial reasoning tasks and toys, we can help them develop a love for math.

Mathematical Abilities

A recent study has found that spatial reasoning skills in early childhood can predict mathematical abilities later in life. The study followed a group of children from ages 6 to 8, and found that those with strong spatial reasoning skills at age 6 were more likely to perform well on mathematical tasks at age 8. This relationship was especially strong for tasks involving the linear number line. 

The findings suggest that spatial reasoning skills play an essential role in the development of mathematical abilities. Furthermore, they indicate that intervening to improve spatial reasoning skills in early childhood could positively impact later math achievement. The study provides new insights into the importance of spatial reasoning skills and highlights the need for further research on ways to support the development of these skills in young children.

Standardized Testing

In Ontario, students take a standardized test in Grade 3 called the EQAO that determines if they are on grade level. Many teachers notice that in grade 2 students often struggle with tasks that involve spatial sense, indicating that it should be included more in math education in the early elementary classroom. But it shouldn’t just fall on teachers to help children understand spatial reasoning. There are many activities that parents can offer their children to help advance their understanding of spatial reasoning.   

How To Be Proactive

Spatial reasoning is a critical skill set for many STEM fields, and strong spatial reasoning skills have been linked to success in mathematics. As I previously mentioned, spatial reasoning skills are often not formally taught in schools which means that children could fall behind. However, parents can be proactive by helping their children develop strong spatial reasoning skills from an early age. This can be done by encouraging spatial talk in children. 

Through spatial talk, children learn to use language to describe spatial relationships and solve problems. For example, a parent might ask a child to put away their toys by saying, “Please put the red block on top of the blue cube.” Parents can also provide opportunities for spatial play, such as puzzles, building blocks, and drawing. By encouraging spatial talk and providing opportunities for spatial play, parents can help their children develop strong spatial reasoning skills that will set them up for success in school and beyond.

Spatial reasoning can be taught through each of the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning). When thinking of math concepts, parents should try and view them through a spatial and geometry lens. For example, when a child is learning about number sense, they can be encouraged to gesture with their hands, or they can visualize the number line. 

If your child is struggling with spatial reasoning or any other math concept, Dropkick Math Academy can help. So, before you start searching for “math tutor near me” learn about our programs or get in contact if you have any questions. Our team of Ontario certified teachers understands the gaps in education that can often occur and can address them while boosting your child’s confidence in mathematics. 

Get started today by having your child complete our FREE assessment. 

Categories
Learn Math

Why Family Engagement Is Vital For Your Child’s Success

Why Family Engagement Is Vital For Your Child’s Success

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. You work hard to provide them with everything they need to succeed in life – from a solid education to good moral values. But did you know that family engagement is also one of the most important things you can do for your child? Here are just a few of the many reasons why.

Building Strong Relationships

It is well-documented that family engagement in a student’s education directly correlates with the student’s success in school. When family engagement is well structured, there is an association with higher grades, test scores, motivation, and improved attendance. Family engagement has been shown to provide students with a sense of belonging and purpose and the feeling that their families are invested in their education. In addition, family engagement can help build strong relationships between parents and teachers, leading to better communication and collaboration around the student’s education. When all of these factors come together, it’s clear that family engagement is essential for student success.

When parents are involved and engaged in the school system, they help to create a positive learning environment for their children. Good communication between parents and the school system can help promote family engagement, which is linked to student success in many ways. Students with engaged families are more likely to have higher graduation rates. In addition, they are less likely to be involved in risky behaviours and more likely to have positive relationships with their peers and teachers. Simply put, parent engagement is essential for student success. When parents maintain good communication with the school system, they see students grow in many ways, not just academically.

Working Together

Too often, we see parents struggling with their child’s homework or turning homework time into hour-long painful sessions where they are trying to explain mathematics to their child. What we need is more family engagement when it comes to homework by learning together. Families can provide support and structure for students when it comes to creating a routine and holding them accountable for completing their work. In addition, family members can offer valuable insights and suggestions when it comes to understanding the material. Families can make homework time a more positive experience for everyone involved by working together.

Don’t Panic

When your child comes to you asking for help with their homework, it’s important to try not to panic. Even if you have math anxiety yourself or struggle with spelling, there are ways that you can help your child succeed. One of the most important things you can do is to be involved in your child’s education. Try to create a calm and relaxed environment at home where your child feels comfortable working on their homework, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. If you’re struggling, reach out to other family members or friends who might be able to give your child the support they need. By taking these steps, you can help your child thrive in school despite any math anxiety you may have.

More Likely To Succeed

Studies have shown that when parents are involved in their child’s education, the child is more likely to succeed. The Ministry of Education recently released information on “Parent Engagement,” which said:

“Parent engagement matters. Study after study has shown us that student achievement improves when parents play an active role in their children’s education, and that good schools become even better schools when parents are involved…” 

Dropkick Math Academy also believes that families should be actively involved in their child’s education and offers the opportunity for parents to learn alongside their children. Our Waterloo math services have several benefits. First, it allows parents to see what their child is learning and how they are progressing. Second, it provides an opportunity for parents to ask questions and get clarification on anything they don’t understand. Finally, it builds a foundation for family conversations about math outside of the classroom. We believe that family engagement is essential to a student’s success and are committed to providing resources and support for families who want to be involved in their child’s math education.

As one of the leading math tutoring services, our certified Ontario teachers support learning essential math skills by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. Get started today by learning more about our math help services.

homeschool resource hub logo white
Support and Encouragement For Homeschool Parents

Education

Curriculum

Main Links

Let's Connect

info@dkmhomeschoolresource.com

Facebook Linkedin Youtube Twitter Instagram
© Copyright
DKM Homeschool Resource