Author: The Dropkick Math Team

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How To Make Math Fun For Your Child

How To Make Math Fun For Your Child

Do math and fun often seem like polar opposites to you? You’re not alone – a lot of parents find it hard to make math an enjoyable experience for their kiddos. Fear not, though; with the right strategies, you can get your child engaged in mathematics and have some laughs along the way! In this blog post, we’ll be talking about how to make math more entertaining for your child – from using simple games to introducing helpful tools. If you are still struggling, there are many math help services that can be utilized to get your child excited about mathematics. So read on if you want to help your son or daughter take a shine to their arithmetic lessons.

Make It A Game

First and foremost, anything can be fun when made into a game. Game-based learning has been touted repeatedly as one of the best ways to get children engaged and interested in learning. 

For young students, games and friendly competition provide an ideal way to speed up the learning process. Hands-on activities like playing cards or board games, and completing puzzles, can help kids access and understand new information quickly and more effectively than through direct teaching. 

By competing with a friend or family member, players are also encouraged to expand their knowledge in order to win the game. Furthermore, games heighten the excitement of learning something new and give kids a valuable break from the traditional school curriculum.

At Dropkick Math Academy, game-based learning is at the center of our student’s educational experience. We understand that children typically learn best when they can actively engage with their subject material in a fun and creative way. 

With game-based study models, our students actively explore complex ideas through play. Our game-based curriculum exposes students to the core concepts of math and encourages them to use problem-solving techniques to find solutions and advance further in gameplay.

Make Use Of Screens

Kids today can no longer imagine life without their devices and screens, so why not make the most of it? Using apps and games to reinforce kids’ understanding of math concepts effectively keeps kids engaged while they learn. With a wide range of interactive activities, kids have fun while being exposed to Math concepts and developing their problem-solving skills. From games designed for kids as young as three all the way up to linking theoretical math skills with video games, these apps and games can be an enjoyable and rewarding way for kids to build confidence in their Math abilities.

Dropkick Math provides virtual math tutoring programs that are an invaluable resource for children and parents alike. Our virtual environment allows children to learn and grow while staying safe in the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for physical classrooms and face-to-face instruction. 

With our range of math help services, students can access exciting virtual activities and other resources all at the click of a mouse. With Dropkick Math, there’s no stopping your child’s learning journey!

Make It Relevant

It’s important to engage kids in math by teaching them how relevant math is to their own lives. Showing kids how math is used for practical purposes in the real world helps them understand why it is necessary and worthwhile. 

By connecting math topics like multiplication, fractions, and equations to experiences from everyday life, such as shopping and telling time, kids learn in a more meaningful way that allows math skills to become part of who they are. When kids form this connection between math and real-life situations, it can shift their mindset from feeling frustrated with math to appreciating its utility and valuing what it can do for them.

Watch Your Words

As parents, it’s all too easy to accidentally introduce math anxiety in our children without even realizing it. A simple statement such as “I am not good at math” can negatively impact our kids because it alters how math is perceived and internalized by them. It creates a harmful perception of math and could lead to math anxiety, which can affect how children perform and how they view themselves in math-related fields in the future. 

We should take care to avoid slipping up with our words when speaking with our kids about math and never allow our own math anxieties to interfere with their math learning experience.

If you do feel anxious about math and don’t know where to start when trying to help your child learn, Dropkick Math Academy may be able to help! We encourage parents to be involved and learn alongside their children. 

As any parent knows, children thrive when they feel loved and supported. This is especially true when it comes to education. When parents are involved in their child’s education, it sends a message of acceptance, inclusion, and respect. This can increase a child’s confidence and motivation, leading to better grades and improved social skills, resulting in them having fun while learning! 

Connect Reading With Math

Connecting math and reading can be a great complement for children who enjoy reading! There are many books available that can help young learners understand math concepts more easily by introducing them through stories. 

Reading about math and its application in a fiction story is an enjoyable way to engage children with mathematical ideas, build comprehension skills and support understanding of the sometimes complicated principles of mathematics. It might even pique their interest to pursue more advanced problem-solving! So if your child loves to read, consider engaging them with a read-aloud book about math for an entertaining and educational experience.

A Love Of Learning

Learning math can often be intimidating for children, especially if they struggle to understand a difficult concept. However, making learning math fun and engaging can be hugely beneficial when it comes to their future success. When children experience learning positively, they are more likely to become eager and confident learners – profiting both academically and personally. 

Whether through games or innovative applications of problem-solving questions, learning math should not have to come at the cost of joy and anticipation. By introducing elements of creativity into learning, children will soon find mathematics an enjoyable part of learning.

Committed To Making Learning Fun

Dropkick Math Academy is committed to making learning math an enjoyable and rewarding experience for your child. With certified Ontario teachers providing personalized instruction tailored to each student, Dropkick’s program helps boost confidence levels and ensures your child has the skills they need to thrive in the future. 

Not only can Dropkick Math help sharpen math fundamentals, but it can also provide fun activities and games that will keep your child engaged and excited about learning more. Our Toronto math services are the perfect way to give your child a head start into success!

Learn more about our programs and get your child started today!

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Math Tutoring

How To Help Your Child Learn Division

How To Help Your Child Learn Division

If multiplication is the bee’s knees, then division must be the honey (or whatever else bees make!). So, whether your child is a young buckaroo learning to divide for the first time or an older kid who needs some extra practice with this arithmetic concept, this blog post will have you and your kiddo buzzing about mastering division! 

Here we’ll discuss helpful tips for introducing kids to division concepts and ways to do so that are fun and educational. We will also dive into math tutoring and whether it is worth it for your child. Let’s get started!

A Confusing Subject

Division can be a confusing subject for children and one that requires plenty of practice. It’s an important skill to learn, as it forms the basis of many other mathematical operations. That’s why it’s essential to find ways to help your child learn division so that they have a strong foundation for future math lessons. Here are some tips and strategies to get your child on the right track. 

Break Down Division Into Components 

Teaching division can be daunting if you try to tackle the entire concept all at once. Instead, break up division into smaller components, such as figuring out division facts or modelling division with objects. This makes it easier for children to understand the process and helps them focus on each step without getting overwhelmed. 

For example, you could start by having your child solve simple divisibility problems using numbers they already know and then move on to practicing factors and multiples before tackling long division. 

Make Use Of Visual Aids

Visual aids are incredibly useful when it comes to teaching division because they help children understand what happens when something is divided into equal parts. You can draw diagrams or create models with objects like candy or coins, so your child can physically see how things are divided up. There are also math manipulatives that you can purchase to help your child learn more easily. This will also help them better understand why certain answers make sense mathematically speaking! 

An example of using visual aids can include having your child divide candies. If your child is practicing math for grade 4, ask them to divide the candies into equal groups. Then instruct them to either split the candies into two groups of four or four groups of two. Discuss this process and show your child how to write it as a division problem. Repeat this activity several times with other numbers to help your child gain a better understanding of division. 

Practice Word Problems 

Word problems can be intimidating for anyone – even adults – but if approached correctly, they can become a fun way for children to learn and apply their knowledge of equations related to division concepts.

Try this word problem with your child involving bicycles:

There are 65 bikes in the bike rack outside the school. Out of all the bikes, 31 are silver. Half of the remaining bikes are red.

Estimate how many bikes are red.

Make sure you provide plenty of examples that come in different forms and require your child to think critically about how they should attack the problem at hand before jumping straight into solving mode! 

Use Games 

Games are not only fun but also an excellent way to reinforce math skills, such as those related to division. Board games such as Monopoly or Boggle encourage players to use counting skills which are helpful when understanding how two numbers interact during a divide-and-conquer calculation scenario (e.g., 4 / 2 = 2). 

Puzzles, math videos, apps and online activities all offer additional opportunities for kids to practice their math knowledge in an engaging manner – which increases the likelihood that knowledge gained from doing so will stick! 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe learning math should be fun and engaging. This is why all of our game-based programs offer children an opportunity to interact easily with our teachers while boosting their confidence in mathematics. Our math tutoring is an alternative to traditional tutoring that only uses textbooks and addresses the problems a child is experiencing at that moment. Our programs set children up with math fundamentals so they have the skills necessary to continue in future grades. 

Talk About Real Life Applications 

Real life examples provide context, meaning and relevance in learning, which helps students connect more deeply with presented content–including difficult concepts like those related to dividing numbers! 

Try discussing situations where knowing how division works comes in handy. This could include sharing equally between friends or dividing tasks among family members. By encouraging your child to think creatively you will also help them harness the power of mental math rather than relying solely on physical manipulations (i.e., pencil & paper) during problem-solving moments. 

Of course, applying math in real life will depend on your child’s age. For example, math for grade 4 can include using division in baking to divide recipes, while high schoolers can practice dividing decimals with finances while helping with the home finances. 

Learning any new topic can sometimes be challenging. Still, by breaking up topics like division into smaller pieces and exploring its real world applications, you’ll be able to make math concepts more understandable for your child – making learning both enjoyable & effective in turn!

Math Tutoring

If your child struggles with division, they may benefit from math tutoring. Understanding the basics of mathematics is essential for children’s success in more complex math equations. Children who do not learn the root of math can find themselves hindered when attempting to tackle harder equations later in their academic careers. Missing that basic foundation can present a problem when children face arithmetic, algebra, and even calculus because a foundational understanding is necessary for them to progress further academically. 

Dropkick Math Academy offers math help services for children who may have a gap in learning. Whether this was caused by missed education from the pandemic or a misunderstanding of mathematics, our programs target the root cause and give children the fundamentals they need to succeed. 

Dropkick Math Programs

Our programs are based on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning). We use an innovative approach to learning that respects modern scientific understanding of childhood education. 

Rather than simply memorizing facts, Dropkick Math Academy encourages students to engage with the subject and strive for a deeper conceptual understanding. Topics are suitably created for each level, so learning is attainable without overloading children, and alternative approaches to concepts allow for maximum engagement and comprehension. Dropkick Math Academy educates by developing student skills and aptitude, creating a well-rounded approach admired by educators across the globe.

Parental Involvement

Division concepts can be confusing to many children, so it’s often best to make sure that you also have full knowledge of your child’s level in relation to their grade. Our programs encourage parents to be involved with their child’s education so they can learn alongside their children. 

Still not sure if Dropkick Math would be right for your child? We offer all children a FREE, no-obligation assessment that will allow us to understand where their gaps in learning occur. We are transparent in our assessment and will share the results with parents/guardians so you can make the appropriate decision for your child. Learn more today by visiting our website. 

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Math Tutoring

Choosing the Right Math Tutor for Your Child

Choosing-the-Right-Online-Math-Tutor

Are you one of the countless parents searching for a “math tutor near me” to help your child get up to speed with their studies? Finding the right teacher can feel overwhelming, like navigating a maze when you’re not quite sure what destination lies at its center. While it might take some time and effort, no parent wants to waste money! – scouting out the ideal math tutor is worth the hunt. After all, a great match could mean that difference between sailing through those pesky equations or drowning in them! Read on for tips on choosing the right math tutor for your child. 

A Daunting Task

Choosing the right math tutor for your child can be a stressful and daunting task. The math tutor you choose will significantly impact your child’s academic performance, so it is important to take the time to find someone who is both experienced and qualified. 

When selecting a math tutor, several factors should be taken into consideration. First, consider the background of the tutors you are looking at. Make sure they have experience in math education and are knowledgeable about different teaching methods suitable for various types of learners. It’s also beneficial to select a tutor specializing in the type of mathematics class your student is currently enrolled in, such as algebra or trigonometry. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we take the quality of our educators very seriously. That’s why only certified Ontario teachers make up our teaching faculty. Each one of our certified teachers is trained and experienced in their respective areas of expertise. With their certified accreditation from the province, you can be sure your children are receiving the highest standard of education available. Our team of certified Ontario teachers ensures that every student gets the individualized attention and instruction needed to succeed in math and beyond.

Availability

Another important factor when choosing a math tutor is their availability. Most tutors schedule lessons either after school hours or on weekends. So, you need to ensure that the tutor’s scheduling options coincide with your available meeting times. You should also inquire about whether virtual sessions are an option; some tutors may offer one-on-one video chat sessions or small group tutorials through video conferencing services such as Skype or Google Meet. 

Dropkick Math Academy is a virtual online math tutor with sessions starting at various times and days of the week, so we can help ensure the time works best for your family. Our small group classes include no more than a maximum of 4 students and are taught through Google Meet.

Making Learning Fun!

Your assessment of a potential math tutor should also consider their professional experiences and qualifications and their personality, especially if you’re looking for long-term instruction for your child. 

A great way to assess their personality is by interviewing them directly or calling up references from past students or parents who have secured their services in the past. Ask questions like: Do they build rapport with students easily? Are they patient and tolerant? Understanding each candidate’s personality can help you determine which one would be best suited to teach your child effectively over an extended period of time. 

We know that math can be frustrating and boring, so we take steps to make our programs fun. All our programs are game-based and taught by teachers who make them interesting and engaging for children. 

Getting The Help They Need

When applying for a math tutor, you want to be sure your child is getting the help they need. Traditional tutors may not be able to recognize the underlying root cause of math misunderstandings and may just help students with the math concepts they are struggling with at that moment in time. However, this is only a bandaid solution, and children may encounter more problems later in their education. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we’re dedicated to helping children learn and develop mathematical skills that they can use for years to come. To ensure our students are set up for success, we start each learning journey by performing an Early Indicators Assessment. This assessment helps us understand each student’s needs, so they can be placed in the most appropriate program for them. We believe this assessment provides an excellent basis for their math education, no matter their grade level or current skill level. By taking this assessment first, we give our students a strong foundation on which they can build an exciting future in mathematics.

Staying On Budget

Finally, budgeting concerns must be taken into account when selecting a math tutor – even though it shouldn’t necessarily dictate your choice of educator! Rates vary significantly among professionals depending on their qualifications and level of experience; make sure to do some research before deciding on any individual so that you can purchase quality tuition within what you can afford financially. 

We believe pricing should be transparent, so we break down all our costs. Dropkick Math Academy is billed in installments, and there are no hidden fees. Our prices are listed on our website, and we also offer FREE programs for participating Ontario school boards as part of the Learning Action Recovery Plan. 

Selecting The Perfect Math Tutor

In conclusion, selecting the perfect math tutor for your child requires careful consideration across multiple factors, including expertise, availability, teaching style and interpersonal skills; ensuring that all these elements come together harmoniously will ensure effective learning outcomes from personalized instruction backed by industry knowledge and experience tailored towards specific age groups like children or teenagers!

We understand finding the perfect fit for your child can be challenging. Dropkick Math Academy is an easy choice. With a rotating schedule of classes starting every few weeks, you are sure to find a timeslot that works for your child. We also ensure that our math intervention programs are fun and engaging so your child will stay focused and eager to learn. We also offer rewards to students at the end of each program which is always a big hit with children! Our current rewards include Amazon gift cards, Bluetooth earbuds, Pokemon cards and more!

So, whether your child is struggling with math or just wants to get ahead, we can help. Learn more about our programs and how we are different than a traditional online math tutor. Help your child succeed by having them fill in our FREE assessment today!

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Math Tutoring

Are Some Students Just Naturally “Good” At Math?

Are Some Students Just Naturally “Good” At Math?

If you’ve ever been in the position of trying to help your kids with their math homework and feeling completely lost, take heart—you are not alone! Many parents struggle to make sense of even basic equations and seek out math help services for their children. 

Meanwhile, some parents seem to possess an inherent understanding of mathematics that far surpasses what we learned in our pre-algebra classes, making us wonder: Are some people just “naturally good” at math? 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the factors behind why students (and some parents) excel, or don’t, in this critical subject area. So if you’re looking for tips on how to encourage your children’s mathematical learning, read on!

Are You Born With It?

Let’s start out by first saying that everyone can be good at math. However, research from Johns Hopkins University shows that some people may be born with a good inherent of number sense. Researchers have found that preschoolers with good number sense also do better on tests predicting mathematical ability. 

Study researcher Melissa Libertus of Johns Hopkins University said in a statement:

“The relationship between ‘number sense’ and math ability is important and intriguing because we believe that ‘number sense’ is universal, whereas math ability has been thought to be highly dependent on culture and language and takes many years to learn.”

For the study, researchers tested number sense, mathematical ability and verbal ability of 200 4-year-olds. To test their number sense, the children were to look at a computer screen that flashed an image of blue and yellow dots grouped together. The images flashed so quickly that they did not have a chance to count them. The children were then asked to determine if there were more blue or yellow dots. 

All children in the study were also given standardized verbal ability and mathematical tests. This required them to do things like count, read numbers, and compare number values. 

It was found that the children who did the best on the number sense test also scored high on the math ability test. 

Just Give Up?

So, what if you were not born with good number sense? Should you just give up? Of course not! Many educators believe that anyone can be good at math – and now there is a study to prove it!

This new study recently published analyzed 52 adult participants to find out whether honing their number sense could help sharpen their higher math skills. All participants were first required to perform multidigit arithmetic problems. Half the group spent 10 sessions estimating large quantities of dots and performing mental calculations on them. The control group got no practice. All participants were then required to complete arithmetic problems again. 

It was found that the math skills of the participants in the dots exercise group improved significantly compared to those in the control group. 

This study, along with numerous others, demonstrates that number sense and symbolic math ability are intimately linked, so by improving one, you can improve the other. 

Researchers suggest that games which hone number sense for children could have a big effect on math learning. By reinforcing number sense, one of the roots of mathematics, children can be better prepared to learn more complex math operations as they grow. 

What Is Number Sense?

So, now you know why it is essential for your child to have a strong understanding of number sense, but do you really know what number sense is? If you are unsure about number sense, don’t worry. Most parents are unsure as to what exactly we mean when we mention this pillar of math. This is why we encourage parents/guardians to join in and learn alongside their children! By building your understanding of the fundamentals of math and how it is taught, you can help your child learn. 

When we talk about number sense, we mean that effortless knack to roughly estimate and compare quantities without counting. Having good number sense means you can walk into a room and quickly recognize approximately how many people are there.

Having number sense is primarily understood as understanding the quantity represented by a number. Primary students start out by exploring the quantities of numbers less than 10 and later learn how to relate quantities to more significant numbers such as 10 and 100. By the end of a student’s primary grades, they should understand quantities associated with two and three-digit whole numbers. During their junior grades, students can develop a sense of multidigit whole numbers, fractions, decimal numbers, and percentages.  

How To Practice Number Sense

As mentioned above, researchers believe one of the best ways to practice number sense for children is through game-based learning. At Dropkick Math Academy, we are an online math tutor that works with parents/guardians and children to fill in any gaps in learning. All of our programs are game-based and offer fun and engaging ways to help children practice and fully understand the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning and proportional reasoning).

We understand how important it is to properly place your child where they will excel. That is why we offer a free assessment so that your child will be placed in a program that will be sure to fit their specific needs and enhance their educational development. This assessment allows us to match them with an appropriate program that best suits their individual strengths. Our program’s goal is to take your child’s learning experience to the next level, giving them the best chance for success!

Get started today with our FREE assessment and help your child with their number sense, so they have the skills needed for future success!

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Math Tutoring

How Tutoring Can Help With Pandemic Recovery

How Tutoring Can Help With Pandemic Recovery

If your child is struggling with math, it may be due to missed education caused by the pandemic. At Dropkick Math Academy, our math tutoring programs may be able to help. Read on to learn how math tutoring can help fill any gaps in learning or misunderstandings. 

The Impact Of The Pandemic

With the pandemic starting to feel like a distant memory, it is imperative to remember how much of an impact it had on our children. Learning disruptions caused by the pandemic undoubtedly dealt some significant blows to the educational systems globally; it was a massive setback for most schools, and many students could not fully access classes or resources to continue their learning. 

While there were online programs offering support in learning, they simply did not compare to traditional methods and consequently posed challenges for students that have yet to be addressed. It is only now that we are beginning to comprehend what challenges our children faced during the pandemic.

Supporting Children

It can be hard to know how best to support our children. But if there’s one thing that parents realize as this difficult period continues, it’s that tutoring may be the answer when it comes to helping kids get back on track with their education. 

Tutors are not only great for helping your child catch up in certain subjects or boost their confidence – they can also provide guidance and motivation crucial to getting through these tough times. 

Dropkick Math Academy was established with the pandemic in mind, and our specially designed math programs acknowledge the unique difficulties and opportunities that this time presents. With that in mind, our math programs were specifically designed to help students fill any gaps and solve their pandemic-induced frustrations with mathematical concepts. 

Our mission is to provide a fun, interactive experience that doesn’t feel like a burden and can help our students develop a love for mathematics even through pandemic-inspired roadblocks. Our programs are accessible online and feature assistance from certified Ontario teachers for additional support when needed. 

EQAO Testing

A few months ago, EQAO test scores were revealed, and they painted a concerning picture of the state of Ontario’s education. According to the data, an alarming number of kids are struggling with basic literacy and numeracy skills. This is cause for concern, as these deficiencies could have significant implications down the road. Parents need to be aware of these troubling findings and take steps to help their children improve their academic performance.

Now that these test results have been released, many parents are asking what will be done to help students catch up with their missed learning. While it may seem like there is no real plan to get things back on track, educators are working to implement measures to ensure that students can catch up on their education. Each school board is working to help students catch up from the lost learning experienced through the pandemic. However, it may be slow coming and may not be the right solution for your child. 

Math Tutoring Programs

Dropkick Math is here to help students who may have a gap in their education due to the pandemic. As one of the leading math help services in Ontario, our trained instructors can provide support in key math skills through fun and interactive programs. All of our classes are taught by certified Ontario teachers and have a maximum class size of four students. This allows our teachers to offer individualized attention to each student and tailor their teaching style to best suit their specific needs. 

Dropkick Math offers a wide variety of modules for kids of all ages, from addition and subtraction for younger kids all the way up to algebra and geometry for older kids. There are even games specifically designed for different learning styles, so whether your child is a visual learner or needs more of a hands-on approach, we’ve got them covered. And because all of the games are played online, you can access them from anywhere with an internet connection. 

An Alternative To Traditional Math Tutoring

Dropkick Math Academy is proud to be an alternative to traditional tutoring. We stand out amongst our competitors for our unique approach to math education, as we believe learning math should be fun and engaging. We focus on building relationships and offer personalized modules matching the student’s understanding level. 

With Dropkick Math, your child can play and learn simultaneously. They’ll never even realize that they’re doing their homework! And because the games are specifically designed to teach math concepts, you can be sure that your child is getting a quality education.

One of the many benefits of our classes is their rotating schedule. Instead of being limited by semesters or terms, classes start every few weeks, so your child can enroll at any time. This means they won’t have to wait before getting started on their education or progress toward achieving their goals.

Getting Help

If you have noticed your child struggling with mathematics since the pandemic, chances are they have a gap in learning. Research now suggests that math tutoring may be an essential part of pandemic recovery for children. 

Getting them the help they need before they fall too far behind is vital. Without the proper support in learning, they could miss out on essential building blocks of math education, which could cause them to struggle as they continue on through higher grades. 

Dropkick Math Academy is your local choice if you are looking for Waterloo math services! As a local business, we understand our student’s needs and can help boost their confidence in math and set them up for future success. For more information on our programs, visit our website today!

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Learn Math

How Dropkick Math Turns Stress Into Success

How Dropkick Math Turns Stress Into Success

For far too many adults, math can be a formidable and overwhelming task when trying to help their children with math homework. Whether you are trying to help your child with addition, division, or algebra – it’s not always easy. But what if there was an easier way? 

Introducing Dropkick Math – the online math tutoring program designed specifically to address these common frustrations and turn them into successes! With intuitive instruction, helpful resources and plenty of practice problems – this program is the perfect tool for parents looking to overcome their fear of math while learning alongside their child.  

A Stressful Experience

Getting to grips with math can be a stressful experience for many adults, especially if they have been out of school for some time. There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to help your child with math homework. It may seem like math was completely reinvented between the time they learned it in school and the time you had to learn it—so much so that it feels like you might as well be learning a new language! 

Sometimes, even pretending to understand what they’re doing can seem impossible – but perseverance is key! Though math may look completely different after all these years, working through math problems together is still one of the best ways for a parent and child to bond.

Learning Together

Math is a subject that many of us dread, but when it comes to learning math alongside your child, it’s an investment in their future that can be rewarding for both parties. Not only will you be able to help keep your child on track and motivated, but you’ll also strengthen math skills you may have forgotten. Plus, math doesn’t have to be as scary and humdrum as you remember – math can actually be quite fun! 

By positively engaging with math, you have the opportunity to help your child learn mathematical problem-solving without anxiety or hesitation. Learning math alongside your kid serves not only as bonding time but also offers opportunities for growth and understanding of math concepts. Who knows? You may even learn something new!

Overcoming Math Anxiety

If you are still not convinced that Dropkick Math Academy can help you from stressing about math, you may be suffering from “math anxiety.” Studies show that about half of Americans suffer from math anxiety, feeling overwhelmed and convinced they just “can’t do math.” But this irrational fear shouldn’t get in the way of finding x or y – math can really be quite interesting (in its own special way) if you aren’t afraid to give it a shot. 

One of the most important things to remember is that math anxiety can be passed down from generation to generation, starting in first grade. If you feel uncomfortable with math, it may increase your child’s anxieties and lower their achievement or confidence when completing a project requiring solving complex equations. This is why it is so important to face your fear of math and learn together. 

Success!

We can take your stress and turn it into success by learning together at Dropkick Math Academy. Our math programs are expertly designed to allow parents to experience math learning with their children. This encourages the child’s desire to learn math and provides an opportunity for the parent to be a part of their development. Working together on math problems while understanding the material together helps the parent and child better understand math concepts.

 The family bond between parent and child is further strengthened as math becomes something fun that they can experience together rather than an obstacle that must be conquered alone.

Our certified Ontario teachers make math fun and engaging, providing practical solutions that break down difficult questions into do-able tasks. So say goodbye to math woes! The answer to all your math problems starts with Dropkick Math programs. 

What To Expect

The first step with Dropkick Math Academy is taking our FREE assessment. This will help ensure you and your child are placed in the appropriate program for their level of learning. 

In our programs, you, the parent/guardian, will sit alongside your child and learn together. You will be encouraged to help them work through problems while learning how to help them understand math concepts. All of our programs are game-based and designed to help make learning fun and engaging so you and your child will be eager to learn.  

At the end of each class, a time slot is dedicated to discussions with the parents. As a group, parents can ask questions and get clarification on problems or concepts that may need a little more explanation.

Our math help services teach the parents alongside the child, which is one way we stand out from traditional tutors. With the knowledge you will gain at Dropkick Math Academy, it will no longer be a problem when your child comes to you looking for help with their homework! You will not only know the answers to the problems, but you will have learned how to help your child understand the math questions at hand. 

Taking Charge

We have seen tremendous success when parents take charge—by breaking math assignments into manageable chunks, finding innovative ways to tutor or practice math concepts in everyday life, and emphasizing a growth mindset over perfectionism. With these strategies, math homework no longer has to be a source of stress but rather an opportunity for success.

As a leading Waterloo math services business, we have expanded nationwide and have helped hundreds of parents overcome their stress and helped turn it into success! Designed with busy parents in mind, our innovative programs bring together the best elements of traditional and modern math tutoring strategies to create an easy-to-use and incredibly effective approach. Find out more about how Dropkick Math can help you become a successful mathematician in no time!

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Operational Sense

How Dropkick Math Helps Children With Operational Sense

How Dropkick Math Helps Children With Operational Sense

Are you a parent whose child is struggling with developing the basic mental math skills needed to solve everyday problems? Does your child struggle with simple addition and subtraction questions? If so, Dropkick Math tutoring company could be the answer to your prayers. 

Our cleverly designed online math help offers an innovative approach to helping children build operational sense – leading them on a rewarding journey from hating math homework to actually enjoying it! Keep reading to learn how Dropkick Math can help your little ones become amazing mathematicians.

The Importance of Mathematical Operations

As adults, we all know the importance of mathematical operations and how mastering them can open up a world of possibilities for learning more complex concepts. But if you’ve ever watched a child learn math, then you also know that having operational sense is key to understanding the workings behind basic algebraic equations and formulae. 

The challenge is helping kids grasp this key concept without getting too frustrated or bored in the process – but don’t worry, Dropkick Math has your back! Keep reading to find out how this innovative program makes teaching operational sense easier and fun for both students and parents alike.

What Is Operational Sense?

Operational sense is when children can make sense of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and use them in problem-solving situations. Children need operational sense to help them understand more complex math expressions later on. As they enter the primary grades, operational sense is one of the most important tools they can have in their mathematical toolbelt. 

With operational sense, children can use various counting strategies, combining and partitioning numbers both mentally and on paper to understand the basics of addition and subtraction. Mathematical fluency becomes almost second nature as this operational sense deepens with practice. Parents should try teaching these concepts through play-based learning early on at home as it can help their child easily acquire such skills.

Programs Focusing On Operational Sense

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in using fun and engaging games to teach children operational sense. By understanding part-whole relationships, children can begin to use operations and perform calculations. So, we use carefully designed games to help children understand these relationships. 

One of our most popular programs that can help children improve their operational sense is Operations, Decimals and Space. This module takes place on the distant planet of Eldamore in a galaxy far far away. 

About Operations, Decimals and Space:

Earth has become overpopulated, and humans have looked to distant neighbouring planets to help create more space. In order to safely colonize the planet, we need your child’s help to regulate the gravitational field by gaining satellite control of the moons of Eldamore.

The alien Cipher (also the name for decimal) wants control of Eldamore so it can use the planet to make a doomsday device and destroy not only our new found planet, but possibly most of the galaxy.

Students must work on learning and improving their understanding of decimals and use teamwork to defend Eldamore and gain control of the six moons. By working with decimals, students can help battle Cipher and the alien horde so that the people of our earth have a safe place to go.

Students will practice their math operations throughout this battle, including adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing. By providing support in learning the building blocks of mathematics and engaging in a fun and interactive learning environment, your child will begin to thrive. 

How To Know If Your Child Has Operational Sense

When children can fluently and flexibly work with computational strategies, they are demonstrating operational sense. Other characteristics that may indicate a grasp on operational sense include:

  • Using algorithms and strategies that make sense to them
  • Understanding the relationships between the operations
  • Developing a range of strategies and algorithms, including those of their own making
  • Determining an appropriate method of computation for the context and numbers involved in the problem

Math skills and confidence often go hand-in-hand. For many students, mastering math concepts can boost their confidence level. Likewise, students who are confident in their math skills often find that they excel in the subject. This is why many parents choose to enroll their children in Dropkick Math. The goal is to give kids a strong foundation in math so they can confidently approach the subject. 

How Dropkick Math Tutoring Company Can Help

If your child has shown signs of struggling with math, they may be missing part of the vital foundation of mathematics. At Dropkick Math Academy, we include the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning) in our online math help. This helps to ensure students have the understanding they need to progress through higher grades in math. By having the basic fundamentals of math, students will continue to thrive throughout their education. 

A Gap In Learning

We understand that the pandemic caused a gap in learning for many children, which has caused them to fall behind. Our programs were developed with this gap in education in mind which is why we use research-based techniques and strategies designed to complement classroom instruction to facilitate students reaching their highest potential in mastering mathematics. 

Our custom-tailored programs are specifically created for students, helping them gain confidence in the building blocks of mathematics and develop conceptual understanding. We create a fun and dynamic educational environment for both parents and children, through engaging games and interactive learning tools.  

We are a tutoring company that addresses deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. This will give a child the best foundation possible to ensure their success in mathematics for years to come! Check out our programs today and learn how your child can thrive in math. 

Categories
Algebraic Reasoning

What Is Algebraic Thinking

What Is Algebraic Thinking

It’s easy to feel daunted when thinking about algebra, with its perplexing symbols and equations that seem like a foreign language. But much of the fear surrounding algebraic thinking is simply due to unfamiliarity; if your child can get to know it better, chances are good they might just find themselves reaching for those numeric symbols more often than you’d expect! Today we will be your algebra tutor and tackle this mysterious branch of mathematics, demystifying the basics so that your child’s first steps into algebra can be taken with confidence.

Understanding Patterns In The World

Algebra is a unique and important branch of mathematics. It involves the manipulation of numbers, symbols, and equations in order to solve multi-variable problems. Algebra helps us determine what a value might be if we are given certain pieces of information or what probability any given event may have. This makes it an extremely useful tool for those wanting better to understand the patterns in the world around them. 

After developing an understanding of algebra’s basic principles, students can then develop these skills further to solve increasingly complex equations, making it an incredibly valuable set of tools for anyone to possess. 

Analytical Problem Solving

Algebraic thinking can be thought of as analytical problem solving, as it is a way of using algebra to look at abstract relationships and solve equations. It involves understanding algebraic rules, comprehending algebraic notation, reasoning algebraically, and connecting algebra with real-world situations. 

In addition, algebraic thinking requires the use of logical deduction to draw conclusions from given information. Ultimately, this type of thinking requires understanding patterns and relationships often hidden beneath the surface. When practiced correctly, algebraic thinking can provide powerful insights into complicated problems that would otherwise remain unknown.

Algebra In Everyday Life

Algebra is a useful tool for carrying out calculations in everyday life. It can help us solve problems such as estimating the cost or duration of something, which can be incredibly helpful when making financial or time-related decisions. For example, algebra can calculate the lowest price possible on a product and determine how long it will take to travel a certain distance. Although algebra may initially seem intimidating, learning how to apply algebraic concepts and equations can be beneficial.  

The first and most important tip to remember is that every student has the capacity to learn how to think algebraically if provided with supportive instruction and helpful tools. To give students the confidence they need to tackle algebraic concepts, teachers and parents should emphasize the importance of problem-solving and explain that algebra is essentially a language made up of symbols used to make sense of our world. 

With this new frame of reference in mind, algebra can become easier for students as they gain more practice working through problems step-by-step. By having a clear plan for introducing algebraic material and providing ample opportunities for practice and feedback, teachers and parents have the power to give children the resources they need to think algebraically confidently.

How To Start Thinking Algebraically

The focus of algebraic thinking should begin with operations and processes rather than numbers and computations. When algebra is studied this way, the rules for manipulating numbers and letters in equations aren’t confusing but are instead a natural extension of what students know about the equation.

Algebraic Reasoning

If you have heard the term algebraic reasoning and wondered how it differs from algebraic thinking – it doesn’t. Both hold the same meaning. At Dropkick Math Academy, we use the term algebraic reasoning when talking about the four pillars of math that our programs have been based around. 

At Dropkick Math, we understand that algebraic reasoning is part of exploring the structure of mathematics. The ability to reason and think proportionately is a critical factor in developing a student’s ability to understand mathematics. However, many students do not seem to grasp any real sense of algebra and often give up understanding it fully.

Due to this education gap, it has been suggested that students be given meaningful experiences in algebraic learning. We are an online math tutor that offers specialized programs focusing on algebraic reasoning, such as The Darkness Of Algebra. In this trilogy, students will navigate through the darkness of algebra with the help of Dropkick Lee, and conquer this challenging topic. 

In this program, students will:

  • Recognize the difference between linear and non-linear relations 
  • use visual patterns as a springboard to dig into algebraic manipulation and solve equations
  • Strengthen their algebraic reasoning skills
  • Solve equations by connecting processes to contexts
  • explore and review concepts connected to almost completely abstract representations and models of linear and nonlinear relationships
  • Use algebra to solve authentic (or real-world problems)
  • Further develop their multiplicative thinking and proportional reasoning

If your child is struggling, an algebra tutor may be the best solution to get them back on track. Get started today by learning more about our programs and if they are the right fit for your child.

Categories
Proportional Reasoning

The Dynamics of Proportional Reasoning – Uncovering Crucial Connections!

The-Dynamics-of-Proportional-Reasoning

Proportional reasoning is an incredibly valuable math concept that is one of the four pillars of mathematics. It requires students to grasp relative size and ratio and proportional relationships between sets of numbers or objects. It also enables children to understand and make proportional judgments in various situations, which are integral to success in mathematics. 

When proportional reasoning is understood correctly, children can quickly break down complex mathematical problems into simpler parts, helping them form a strong foundation within mathematics and build a deeper comprehension essential for future math challenges. 

However, if a child is struggling in math, they may be missing the basic foundation, including proportional reasoning. As one of the leading math programs in Toronto, Dropkick Math Academy works with students to help repair any misunderstandings or gaps in learning. 

Does Your Child Enjoy Learning About Proportional Reasoning?

If your child enjoys spending time rationalizing and solving puzzles, chances are they enjoy learning about proportional reasoning. As one of the four pillars of math, proportional reasoning offers children the perfect combination of challenges, whether they want to test their problem-solving skills or just strengthen those mental muscles. 

With proportional reasoning paving the way toward understanding fundamental mathematical concepts, it’s no wonder why children must get a firm grasp on the subject. Children can power up their equation-solving abilities by fully understanding how deep relationships work in proportional reasoning.  

The Relationships

Relationships are a key component in mathematics, especially in proportional reasoning, as it relies heavily on comparing quantities and values. These relationships are evident through the study of ratios, rates and rational numbers. 

An example of how relationships work in proportional reasoning is shown when comparing values in a ratio. When children start to understand relationships, they will better understand the concept of the mathematical equation and how to solve it. 

Developing Proportional Reasoning

Students developing proportional reasoning can generally distinguish between additive and multiplicative relationships. They are able to solve problems involving proportional reasoning and can compare ratios. Students should learn proportional reasoning over several years, beginning in younger grades alongside the development of their rational number sense. 

For children who may be struggling with proportional reasoning, Dropkick Math Academy can help! Proportional reasoning is a fundamental component of mathematics and an invaluable asset for students of all ages. This skill can help students tackle any subject that requires arithmetic or mathematical understanding. 

Students of all academic levels must be equipped with proportional reasoning competencies to successfully get through school and have basic skills beyond their academic years. Employers in various fields may also appreciate workers who possess proportional reasoning abilities, so mastering this important concept should never be overlooked or belittled.

The Four Pillars Of Math

As experienced Ontario teachers, we have seen a lack of confidence and understanding from our students in mathematics over the years. Upon further review, we recognized four key areas that children struggled with when mastering math – Number Sense, Operational Sense, Proportional Reasoning and Algebraic Reasoning. 

We now understand that if students do not possess a strong base in these four pillars of math, they risk struggling to keep up in the classroom setting. Our goal is to improve our students’ foundational skills by incorporating the basic fundamentals in each of our programs to enrich math education for all.

Our Programs

Seeking relationships between mathematical concepts is a key component of learning, particularly when it comes to children. Understanding relationships between the different elements of mathematics can help children learn more efficiently and set them up for greater success beyond basic arithmetic. However, forcing children to uncover relationships before they understand the basics can be detrimental as it can disconnect them from math, causing them to shut down and be unwilling to engage in learning at all. 

Ultimately, introducing relationships into a child’s mathematics learning requires careful and thoughtful implementation; too little and their instruction could suffer, but too much will cause them to become disinterested. This is why we leave the stuffy textbooks behind and make learning fun. 

At Dropkick Math, our small-class math tutoring approach allows us to tailor lessons to the student’s needs and learning styles. So, whether your child is struggling with algebra or decimals and fractions, our team is here to provide the math learning techniques needed to support and guide your child every step of the way. Trust us for expert math help from caring professionals.

If your child is struggling with mathematics, it is essential to understand where they need extra help. An online math tutor like Dropkick Math Academy can help your child catch up and boost their confidence which will last for years to come. Get started with our program today by filling out our Free Early Indicators Check-In. 

Categories
Number Sense

How To Know If Your Child Has Number Sense

How To Know If Your Child Has Number Sense

Knowing if your child has number sense is something every parent/guardian should be concerned about. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs that indicate good number sense. We will also look at how math tutoring can help those with a gap in learning. 

A Daunting Concept

We all want our children to grow up well-rounded and equipped with knowledge, but some skills seem more elusive than others. This can be especially true when it comes to math; while you may know the basics of teaching addition and subtraction, do you really understand how your child is grasping the concepts of number sense? 

As daunting as the concept might be, understanding number sense is an essential part of setting your child up for academic success – so let’s take a look at what it means to have number sense and how we can help our kids develop it!

What Is Number Sense?

Have you ever encountered situations where your children are solving math problems in their heads, and the answer just seems to pop right out? If so, then it’s likely that they have what is known as number sense – a concept which has become increasingly important for parents to recognize.

Plain and simple, number sense is a person’s ability to understand, relate, and connect numbers. It is the sense of what numbers mean. It is an important skill for mathematical learning and competent number problem-solving. It includes the ability to understand number relationships, magnitude, and number representation. Number sense is a building block for later number skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

How To Tell?

At this point, you may be asking yourself, how do I know if my child has number sense? First, children with trouble with number sense often show signs at an early age. These children will typically tend to struggle with basic operations such as addition and subtraction. They may also exhibit trouble with everyday tasks such as handling money, judging time and measuring quantities. 

As children get older and start learning more complex mathematical concepts and principles, they will be likely to say they “don’t get it,” or that it “doesn’t make sense.” If this sounds familiar, then your child may be missing number sense. 

If this problem continues, a child can increasingly feel lost as they move up through the school grades. Year after year, the gap in learning will grow between what they are being taught and what they truly understand. When older children lack number sense, they need to work harder and longer than they should have to solve math problems. This is a significant reason why so many children may need math tutoring.  

How Can I Teach My Child Number Sense?

If your child has a learning gap and is missing number sense, you are most likely wondering how you can help. There are many things that parents/guardians can do to help their children. 

According to research, number sense can be developed by providing meaningful activities that allow children to explore number concepts in different engaging ways. At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe that the development of number sense depends on fostering active engagement in number experiences from an early age that promotes the ability to think flexibly about numbers in various contexts.

Teaching number sense to a child involves presenting numbers in a way the child can understand, providing opportunities for number exploration, and guiding their discovery of number relationships. With guided instruction, children can connect number symbols with quantity, associate numbers with specific patterns, recognize numerical sequences and work on basic number problems. 

Fun activities like counting objects out loud or matching numerals to daily activities help children learn number sense quickly. Math manipulatives can be a great tool to help children learn about number sense. 

Engaging with stories about counting or singing number songs can also be inexpensive and entertaining ways to teach number sense to a child. With patience, dedication and encouragement from parents or teachers, any child can develop their number sense faster.

Getting Help From A Professional

In addition to learning at home, many children will need extra help from a professional. At Dropkick Math Academy, we use certified Ontario teachers to ensure our students receive the best quality of math tutoring available. Our certified teachers understand how to teach children at every level and can provide customized strategies tailored to every student’s needs. 

Our tutors are dedicated employees with a proven track record of success in the education field and strive for excellence in all aspects of tutoring – from advising students on the techniques needed to understand complex math problems to helping them understand and reshape their approach to problem-solving. Our certified Ontario teachers are the glue that binds our program together!

Getting The Help They Need

As children begin to learn math, it is vital for them to improve their skills and practice number sense so it does not last into adulthood. Unfortunately, the pandemic caused many students to have a loss in learning over the past couple of years, so it is imperative that children get the help they need before it becomes a bigger problem. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, our programs focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, algebraic reasoning), which help to ensure a child’s knowledge of mathematics starts at the root. 

Click to learn more about our programs and how we can help get your child back on track while boosting their confidence in math!

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