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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.

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Understanding Positive Screen Time Between Children and Technology

Understanding Positive Screen Time Between Children and Technology

As technology becomes increasingly intertwined in our society, many parents are left wondering how to integrate it into their children’s lives best. Negative screen time, such as when kids watch too much television or play violent video games, is extremely different from positive screen time. This includes using devices and apps for educational purposes, communicating with friends and family online, and enjoying other nonviolent entertainment. By understanding the benefits of positive screen time and implementing it into your child’s routine in a sensible way, you can help them grow up tech-savvy while still maintaining healthy development habits.

Reducing Screen Time

In recent years, the conversation about screen time and children has primarily been focused on the need to reduce it. While there is no denying that too much screen time can have negative consequences for physical and mental health, there is also an opportunity for parents to change the dialogue surrounding technology and children. Instead of simply reducing screen time, parents should focus on promoting a positive relationship between their children and technology. When used in moderation, technology can be a valuable tool for learning and creativity. By encouraging a healthy balance, parents can help their children reap the benefits of technology while avoiding its risks.

Understanding Screen Time

With technology becoming more ingrained in our everyday lives, parents need to develop their own understanding of what constitutes good vs. bad screen time. This is a difficult assessment to make, but it is a necessary step since technology, and new media are no longer simply entertainment channels but extensions of the learning and living environments. 

Children should be taught how to handle these tools and how to grow with them as they continue to change. In order to facilitate positive engagement between their children and the screen, parents must be proactive in setting limits and providing guidance on how to use technology in a healthy way. By doing so, they can ensure that their children are getting the most out of their screen time and are prepared for a future where technology plays an even greater role in their lives.

How To Assess Good vs Bad

So, how do parents begin to understand what content falls under good or bad screen time? Since each child learns in different ways and the context and circumstances are constantly changing, it is vital that parents have an open mind when making decisions that affect the screen time for their child. 

A good place to start understanding healthy screen time is brainstorming “good” screen time. Some examples may include:

 

Minecraft – Minecraft is a popular video game that has been praised for its ability to help players develop important skills. While it’s important to limit screen time, Minecraft can actually help kids develop various important skills, including logic, problem-solving, goal setting, and literacy. In addition, the game has been shown to promote STEM learning, with kids developing an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. This makes Minecraft a popular choice for parents looking for healthy screen time options for their kids. The game offers an immersive world that encourages creativity and exploration. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that Minecraft is one of the most popular games around.

Coding – Many people think that coding is too complex and difficult for young children to learn. However, research has shown that kids are fully capable of mastering simple coding concepts at a very early age. Many online platforms offer free coding lessons for students of all ages, including preschool-age children. In addition to exposing children to important skills like logic and problem solving, coding can also be a great way to encourage healthy screen time and boost their creativity.

Whether you’re an adult or a child, learning coding can be an incredibly valuable skill in today’s digital world. From developing websites and apps to solving complex technical problems, programming offers countless opportunities for career growth and development. And with the abundance of resources available online, there’s really no excuse not to start learning now! 

Informative Film – The average child spends over seven hours a day looking at screens, whether it’s a TV, computer, tablet, or smartphone. And while this amount of screen time can be concerning, if they are watching informative tv or film, it may be beneficial. Screen time can be a great way for kids to learn new things and explore their interests. There are resources like PBS Kids that offer educational shows and games for younger learners. And for older kids, there are hundreds of documentaries that explore everything from current events to every era of history. So if you’re looking for a healthy way to keep your kids entertained, consider letting them spend some time in front of a screen.

Content – Children’s healthy screen time can be boiled down to the 4 Cs: connection, critical thinking, context, and creativity. Connection refers to how much the content your child is consuming can be related to their everyday lives. The more connections they can make, the more likely they are to retain the information. Critical thinking goes hand-in-hand with connection in that it challenges your child to view things in different ways and see problems from multiple perspectives. Context is important because it puts things into perspective and helps your child understand how technology affects the world around them. Finally, creativity allows your child to explore their imagination and come up with new ideas. All four of these Cs are important when trying to determine healthy screen time for children.

Online Tutoring – When it comes to applying technology in the home, online tutoring is one of the most practical ways to improve a child’s performance in the classroom. Online tutoring sessions can be tailored to each individual student’s needs, providing them with the personalized attention they may not be able to get in a traditional classroom setting. What’s more, online tutoring platforms often support mobile phone and tablet interaction, making it easier for students to access their lessons from anywhere. And because parents can choose from a variety of reputable online tutoring services, they can be sure their child is getting the best possible education. With so many advantages, it’s no wonder online tutoring is one of the most popular ways to learn.

We Offer Healthy Screen Time

Dropkick Math is your best choice for math programs that offer healthy screen time. We are an online academy that provides math programs taught by certified Ontario teachers. By creating a “math playground,” we make learning fun and educational for your child. Our math learning techniques include online group sessions and engaging games that will have your child wanting to learn more. 

Start by having your child take our FREE assessment today!

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Does Your Child Have The Illusion Of Understanding

Does Your Child Have The Illusion Of Understanding

In psychology, the term “illusion of understanding” is used to describe a situation in which a person believes that they understand something better than they actually do. This often happens when people are trying to explain something to someone else. They may think they know it perfectly well, but only partially or superficially in reality. This can be a problem for parents when their children try to explain something to them. Parents need to be aware of this illusion and not interpret their children’s explanations as actual understanding. Otherwise, they may not be providing the appropriate level of support and instruction.

False Sense Of Confidence

The illusion of learning can be a tempting trap for students to fall into. Recognizing information once it is presented can give the illusion that they have learned the material, but in reality, they can only recall it as long as they are given clues. This can create a false sense of confidence and lead to frustration down the road when the material must be recalled without any hints. 

When studying, your child needs to test recall regularly to ensure that they are actually learning the material and not just memorizing it for the time being. By making a conscious effort to recall information without any prompts, they can avoid the illusion of learning and set themself up for success in the long run.

Serious Consequences

Some modern education emphasizes memorization over true learning, which can have serious consequences for students’ development. The illusion of learning, or the confusion between recall and recognition, is a perfect example of this phenomenon in action. When students simply memorize facts or concepts without truly understanding them, they may appear to be proficient in certain subjects. However, this illusion of learning often leads to poor performance later on when more complex material is introduced. 

While many people think that simply memorizing information or performing rote repetition will lead to a true understanding of a topic, this type of behaviour does not indicate comprehension. Instead, true learning occurs when students can recall and recognize the information that they have learned effectively.

At its core, this confusion can have profound implications for children’s learning. When students rely solely on rote repetition or memorization, they fail to grasp the underlying concepts of what they are studying thoroughly. Instead of merely cramming facts into their minds, students must learn how to think critically about the topics presented in class. Only by attaining this level of critical thinking can students better understand concepts and apply them across different situations—ultimately ensuring success both inside and outside the classroom. Thus, in order to help children succeed academically, we must focus on developing their ability to recall and recognize what they are learning instead of simply relying on illusionary memories that may ultimately lead them down the wrong path.

Tricks and Tips

An analogy that I regularly use when speaking with parents about the illusion of learning is that a child can read a book over and over again, but it doesn’t mean they necessarily understand it. In education, we teach children all sorts of tricks and tips to help them learn, but some children just memorize the catchy rhyme or funny diagram instead of grasping the concept. 

There is one rhyme that students love to repeat that goes, “6 and 8 went on a date and didn’t come back till they were 48.” While this is a great way to get children interested in learning multiplication, many simply learn the rhyme, so it appears like they understand their multiplication tables. However, they may not be able to describe how multiplication actually works. 

Unfortunately, this story is all too familiar. I have seen it in far too many children who can throw together many riddles and rhymes to show me their multiplication or division skills, but they do not have any authentic understanding of what they are actually saying. When I ask them more questions about math fundamentals, they often just completely blank out. 

Quick Gratification

Many students often fall into the trap of feeling like they are learning when, in reality, they are simply memorizing information for the sake of quick gratification. This illusion of learning tricks them into believing that their endless hours of preparation will bear fruit, and this sense of confidence convinces them that their studying is effective. However, as most students know all too well, this kind of illusion is often just a mirage; despite all that hard work, study results do not come to fruition. Many students blame themselves for being “stupid” or “dumb” when these setbacks inevitably occur”. But in reality, the root cause of their failure is not a lack of intelligence or aptitude; instead, it is because they have fallen prey to the illusion of learning. 

Ultimately, students need to realize that true learning requires much more than rote memorization; it requires persistence and dedication to reap real rewards. Only then can they break free from this never-ending cycle and succeed in their studies.

We Understand The Illusion Of Learning

At Dropkick Math, we understand the illusion of learning and take steps in our programs to ensure children fully understand the material rather than simply memorize it. All of our instructors are certified Ontario teachers who understand education and the need to work with children to make sure they fully grasp the ideas being taught. 

Our math help services focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, algebraic reasoning). We teach children that math is fun and that learning it can also be enjoyed through engaging games. So, before you start doing a Google search for “math for grade 4” to help your child with any gaps in their learning, check out our programs and learn how we are different from a typical math tutor. 

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

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How To Help Your Child With Multiplication

How To Help Your Child With Multiplication

Math can be a stressful subject for many parents, and multiplication is one of the most feared subjects. When your child comes to you for help with their multiplication, you may feel like simply running away. If this sounds like you, chances are your fear of multiplication all comes down to two reasons. The first was that the procedures you were taught in school didn’t truly teach you the intricacies of the operation. Secondly, multiplication can be complex and has many different manifestations. It is ok to reach for help, so if you are thinking of math help services for your child, contact Dropkick Math today!

Making Math Fun!

Due to the confusion around multiplication, many parents are left wondering if there are any ways of making learning multiplication fun, enjoyable, and easier. Learning multiplication is a vital skill that children must learn before entering high school. Therefore, it is essential that parents try to find different ways to teach their children, so they do not fall behind in their studies.

One solution to helping your child with their multiplication is online math tutoring. But, if you want to engage your child with some offline learning, we can help with some highly effective tips on how to teach multiplication the easy way.

Hang Up A Multiplication Chart

This is an old technique, but it has stood the test of time. Go online and find a multiplication chart that you can download and print. Sit down with your child and go through the multiplication chart, filling in each individual box together. Hang the completed chart up in a place where your child will see it regularly (e.g. the refrigerator door, next to the family computer, or their bedroom door.) Set a regular time for you and your child to sit down and have a casual run through a particular set of multiplications a few times a week. Just keep in mind that the more they see and practice their multiplications, the more likely a child can learn them.

Take One Step At A Time

Teaching multiplication should be like building a house. You need to start with the foundation first, so teach your child the simplest multiplications first and save the harder ones for the end. The two times table is an excellent starting point as they’re pretty straightforward and just involve doubling each number. 10s are simple, too, as they just involve moving the number one place value to the left. Once your child has mastered the basics, their newfound sense of confidence can help them conquer the more complex tables.

Teach Some Multiplication Strategies

One of the great things about mathematics is that it can be full of strategies to help children learn. Some examples of strategies include:

x 0 – always equals zero (6 x 0 = 0) or (100 x 0 = 0)
x 1 – equals that number (1 x 8 = 8) or (9 x 1 = 9)
x 2 – double that number (2 x 4 = 8) or (10 x 2 = 20)
x 3 – double and one more group (3 x 2 = 6) or (3 x 11 = 33)
x 4 – double, double (4 x 2 = 8) or (4 x 20 = 80)
x 5 – count by fives (5 x 10 = 50) or (5 x 8 = 40)

These strategies can be fun, but it is important to encourage your children to understand why these techniques work and the mathematical reasoning behind them.

Check Their Fluency!

Once your child seems to be getting the hang of their multiplication, it’s time to put them to check their fluency. Choose times when there’s nothing else going on and no distractions. This can include walking them to school or while you’re waiting for a bus. Try to make the questions fun and entertaining and normalize these check-ins by allocating a specific time of the week they will happen rather than springing it on them randomly. These quizzes should not be too stressful and should be aimed at building your child’s confidence by praising what they have learned and how far they have come.

Enroll Your Child In Dropkick Math

If your child is struggling with their multiplication or other foundational math skills, Dropkick Math can help. 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 through engaging games and interactive learning tools. Our Waterloo math services help children in the area and throughout Ontario. All of our programs are taught online to be accessible to any child anywhere. 

Get your child started today with our FREE assessment!

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Understanding Math Tools and Jargon

Understanding Math Tools and Jargon

As discussed in previous blog posts, parents often feel frustrated when speaking with their children about math. Math calculations appear different from when they were in school, and how their child talks about math seems like a new language. This can often create barriers between parents and children in being able to discuss schoolwork. 

Working With Your Child

Being a part of your child’s learning is vital for their success. It is essential that parents work with their children and get involved in their education. However, it can be frustrating if the parent struggles with the topic. This is why at Dropkick Math, we expose the parent to new learning strategies their child may be experiencing in their classroom. Once the parent starts to learn and understand these new ways of engaging with mathematics, they will feel more confident to become more involved in their child’s education. 

Your attitude about learning can directly influence your child’s educational success. Over three decades of research has found that student success is positively impacted by parent involvement regardless of socioeconomic status, background, or parent’s level of education. Dropkick Math provides resources and advice on how to get started learning alongside your child. When you learn alongside your child, you set an example while strengthening your relationship. Your child will see your confidence building in mathematics which will help build them up as well. 

Learning the Language

The first step in being active in your child’s math education is learning about the tools and language of math. By having a foundational understanding of how teachers speak and the tools they use, you can better communicate with your child and their teachers. The following are some of the most common words and sayings that your child or their teacher may use when explaining tools used in mathematics. 

Math Tools

You may envision screwdrivers or a hammer when you first hear the word tools. In the math world, tools refer to devices that help solve a problem. These tools help carry out a particular function and are often referred to as manipulatives. However, in math, tools don’t always have to be physical, some are just representational.

Manipulatives allow children to feel, touch and visualize what they can’t yet create on their own. They can enable children to receive immediate feedback about whether their idea makes sense. Using tools, a child can move hands-on objects to investigate and explore a math concept that may be challenging.

Unifix Cubes

Unifix cubes are manipulatives that are used starting in preschool and can help children understand the foundation of mathematics. Starting from a very young age, children aged 0 – 4 can use these cubes for playtime. Children around age 5 can use the cubes to start practicing counting and represent quantitative measures. As children grow older, unifix cubes can be used to help children draw the connection to multiplication by visually seeing groups organized. These cubes can also be used in older grades to explore patterning and algebraic relationships.

Counters

Counters are a fun, popular manipulative that have many uses throughout your child’s education. Counters come in two forms, either dual-coloured or single-coloured. They are used very similar to unifix cubes; however, they cannot link with each other like cubes can, limiting their use in some ways. Counters are a great way for your child to visualize fractions in different ways, and they can be placed easily to show part-to-whole relationships. As children grow older, counters can help them with the study of percentages, pattering, and algebraic relationships.

Pattern Blocks

Pattern blocks are a type of manipulative that enables children to visually see how shapes can be composed, decomposed, or broken apart. Pattern blocks can be used in many different ways throughout all grades. Common uses for pattern blocks at the early elementary level include identifying and naming shapes, defining attributes, discovering how shapes are composed, and making up other shapes. As children get older, pattern blocks can be used to develop an understanding of fractions, identify angles of shapes through geometry, and recognize visual patterns.

Base-Ten Blocks

Base-ten blocks are also known as multi-base arithmetic blocks or place value blocks. This tool can help children recognize the value of numbers using three-dimensional blocks that come in wood or plastic. In early grades, children can use the units to represent one place or begin to make sense beyond whole numbers as they represent decimals. The blocks can help your child add or subtract whole numbers, focusing on place value. Older children can use the blocks to multiply and divide whole numbers, focusing on place value.

Representational Models

Physical tools are classified as manipulatives or hands-on models. Children can easily manipulate them with their hands, and they act as a great starting tool for many mathematical concepts. These tools can be a great way to help support student learning as they navigate through math concepts. Representational models are tools too, but rather than being tangible like manipulatives, they are representational, or drawn. 

It is important to understand that each representation is not an exact copy of representational models. Young children can sometimes get wrapped up in drawing perfect pictures, and they lose track of the actual math concept. This is an excellent place for parents to support their child learning by asking them questions such as “Can you draw a picture to represent the situation or story?” “How does your picture represent the story?” and “Where in the picture can I see the quantities from the story?”

A Deeper Understanding

Understanding the fundamentals behind the mathematical foundation is critical for a child’s fluency and math development. Using both manipulatives and representations, your child can build a deeper understanding of the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, proportional reasoning). When confronted with a problem they have never seen before, children will be able to extend their thinking to the basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division by using their tools. 

Understanding the language and tools used in your child’s education can help them grow in their studies and give them the practices necessary for future success. At Dropkick Math, we involved the parent/guardian in our programs. We believe that it is essential for a child’s growth to have the guidance of their parent/guardian and that good schools become even better schools when parents are involved. 

As one of the leading math services in Ontario, our certified teachers support learning key math skills by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. Don’t waste more time searching for “math tutor near me.” Get started today with Dropkick Math today by learning more about our programs!

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The Lingering Effects Of Unfinished Learning

The Lingering Effects Of Unfinished Learning

Although our lives have returned to what feels like normal, the reality is that we are all still living with the aftermath of COVID. For kids, this means unfinished learning, and for parents, it can mean feeling like we need to do more to help our children catch up. The good news is that there is a lot that parents can do to help their children get through this rough patch. 

The Negative Effects of COVID

This is an unprecedented time in education, and to many, it feels like we are learning something new about the adverse effects of COVID every day. Unfinished learning has been outlined as one of the negative effects COVID has had on students around the country.

If you have a child in school, you’re probably familiar with the concept of unfinished learning. It’s when kids are given new material to learn, but for one reason or another, they don’t quite finish. Maybe they get distracted and stop paying attention in class, or they just don’t have enough time to fully understand the material. But what happens to that unfinished learning? Does it just disappear into thin air? Or does it have some sort of lasting impact on our kids’ academic performance? As parents, it’s something we should be aware of and concerned about. So today, we’re going to take a closer look at unfinished learning and its effects on our kids. 

Academic Withdrawal

According to recent research, of all the subjects, math learning seems to have taken a bigger hit during the pandemic compared to others. More students are reporting feeling left behind, and students’ growth rate in math is expected to slow during the next few years. The pandemic also widened preexisting achievement gaps hitting children who may have already been struggling with understanding math concepts before school closures, and virtual classrooms took over. 

While most students across the country are now back in the classroom, it wasn’t long ago that their world had been turned upside down. The traditional five days a week turned into a hybrid for many students. Districts oscillated between virtual and in-person learning as they balanced the need to keep students safe while providing an effective learning environment. Students may have been faced with new schedules, were assigned new teachers mid-year, or struggled with poor internet connections or Zoom fatigue. It is safe to say that these past two years have been a uniquely challenging time for teachers and students, and it is no surprise that it has left its mark. 

For some students, even after all the closure announcements and virtual classrooms, there is still an air of unfinished business lingering in the back of their minds. These students may be experiencing “academic withdrawal” symptoms that could impact them well into the future. 

Unfinished Learning

The term “unfinished learning” has been coined to help capture the reality that students were not given the opportunity to complete all the work they would have typically finished in the past couple of years. The majority of children simply learned less than they would have in a typical year. However, some students have disengaged from school altogether and slipped backward, losing the skills and knowledge they once had.

No matter how much education was lost, students may be missing key building blocks of knowledge that are necessary for success. But, it isn’t just academic knowledge that students are missing out on. The fallout from the pandemic threatens to harm this generation’s prospects and limit their opportunities far into adulthood. The ripple effects may hinder their ability to attend university or find a fulfilling job that enables them to support a family. 

The Ontario Learning Recovery Action Plan for Students

Ontario has addressed this issue by recently introducing the Learning Recovery Action Plan for Students. This targeted initiative helps bridge students’ learning gaps, support academic success, and focus on overall mental health and wellness. Ontario’s plan is based on the latest scientific evidence and will provide students with the resources they need to succeed.

Although it is too early to know the effectiveness of post-pandemic solutions for unfinished learning fully, the action’s scope is clear. Schools need to recover unfinished learning and reimage the education system to address these gaps in education for the long term. It will be imperative for educators to listen to parents and students, take a holistic approach, and design programs that meet academic and non-academic needs. 

At Dropkick Math, we understand the effects that unfinished learning has had on students of all ages. We are one of the fastest-growing programs in Ontario aimed at addressing the education gap experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. But we are more than just an online math tutor. We address deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. All instructors are qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs.  

If your child shows any signs of unfinished learning, we can help get them back on track and boost their confidence. Learn more about our programs today!

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Developing Habits That Generate Success

Developing Habits That Generate Success

I often get parents asking me how they can help their children with their study skills. We are all familiar with coming home the night before a test and studying to memorize how to calculate each math problem. But as an educator, I explain to parents that we would rather have children develop habits that generate long-term success and not cram the night before a test.

Your Child’s Success

Your child’s success in the classroom doesn’t come from any single thing. It’s about the right mix of effort, attitude, and habits. These habits are an important ingredient in this recipe, and they’re very much learned behaviour. Straight A students are not born, they’re made. Every child is capable of getting the grades they want by practicing positive daily habits. By managing emotions, staying away from distractions, and creating a straightforward plan, children can learn faster and enjoy their education while setting themselves up for success.

As a parent, you must help your child develop these habits they need to achieve academic success. You and your child will also see benefits beyond the classroom by sticking to a plan.

A Focused Workspace

Perhaps the most important part of developing a positive study habit is ensuring your child has their own desk or workspace in an area of the home that allows them to focus. It should be well lit and away from other distractions. Study supplies should be kept on hand in this area, such as sticky notes, a variety of pens and pencils, highlighters, and scrap paper.

Encourage your child to take ownership of this area and give them the freedom to decorate, organize, and clean up their desk each night to be ready to work when it comes time for their next study session.

Keeping Time

Time management can be an incredibly beneficial aspect of your child’s education. Show them how to keep a homework planner and have them write down important due dates for homework and projects. Teach them how important it is to stay on top of their assignments and how to prepare for important tests by making a schedule for reviewing material leading up to a test. This helps to avoid any late-night cramming the night before.

Show your child how you break down big projects by determining the smaller milestones and work with them to make a schedule for when they will have these components complete. This can help build confidence in your child by making their workload feel more manageable.

Reviewing Material

One of the greatest habits that can help generate success for your child is learning how to review content to understand mathematical concepts fully. Simply reviewing content the night before a test is not the best method for your child to gain a deep understanding of the material. Working with your child to review questions and having them provide explanations as to how they got to their answers can make sure they truly understand math operations. Try to encourage them to be more interactive by taking approaches such as completing practice tests or using flashcards.

It is well known that studying a little bit of a subject each day is much more effective for long-term retention than studying for a more extended period of time in a single day. Help your child structure a study schedule that can allow them to space out their studying, so they do not become overwhelmed. Even as little as 10 minutes of practice a day can help. For longer studying sessions, taking a 15-minute break once every hour can work wonders in keeping them focused and productive.

Ask For Help

Let your child know that it is OK to make mistakes and ask for help. Bringing up challenges early and asking for help can reduce frustration and math anxiety. It is also essential to teach your child how to build effective relationships with other students so that they can ask their peers for help or offer support to others who may struggle.

Cut Out Distractions

In today’s world, children live with 24-hour distractions. Getting distracted by devices or multitasking can take away from learning, so make sure your child has no distractions when reviewing their work. In an educational environment, it is essential that children stay focused on a single subject for a period of time before moving on to another subject.

Healthy Habits

Many habits can be developed to help generate your child’s success. However, a few often get overlooked but vital to their future success. A child needs essential vitamins and nutrients to help their brain grow and flourish. And, without proper sleep or rest, children may become unfocused, restless, and frustrated  Ensuring that your child has healthy sleeping and eating habits can help to maximize their focus and make the most out of their time spent studying.

There is no shortage of strategies to help a child build solid habits that can help generate success. Whether your child struggles with math or excels, they may benefit from extra education. At Dropkick Math, all instructors are qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs.  

Math tutoring is an excellent way to help your child get caught up on any gaps in learning. But, at Dropkick Math, we go even further than just tutoring your child. We are a lasting solution that provides your child with the tools to move forward and build their confidence, giving math the dropkick it deserves. Short fixes don’t always address the fundamental gaps in learning, but with Dropkick Math, you can rest assured that your child will master every building block of math learning. Learn more about our programs and get started with our FREE assessment today!

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Creating A Math Mindset

Creating A Math Mindset

There is no doubt that the mindset of parents can profoundly impact a child when it comes to learning mathematics. The term mindset refers to your internal beliefs and assumptions and has been coined by Stanford University professor Carol Dweck. Your mindset dictates how situations are handled in daily life, and it can substantially impact mathematics.

Learning Mindsets

When learning, there are two predominant options: a “fixed mindset” and a “growth mindset.” A fixed mindset involves believing that one intelligence does not change from birth. Children with a fixed mindset in mathematics often repeat comments such as “My parents were bad at math and so am I.” Or, “I have never been good at math.” Children can often become very discouraged and buy into the idea that you are either “smart,” “average,” or “dumb” in math.

It isn’t just children that may have this type of mindset. Parents are often also heard using fixed mindset sayings as well. Many times when a child asks a parent for help with their math homework, parents may often say, “I have never been good at math.” The problem is that kids hear what parents are saying and internalize it.

Individuals with a fixed mindset often look for something or someone to blame for their failures. Children with fixed mindsets may say things like, “the teacher picks on me,” or, “You made me angry, so I couldn’t study.” It is important to understand that blaming others does not improve performance. Only a growth mindset can help to improve performance.

A Growth Mindset

In stark contrast to a fixed mindset, a growth mindset is a belief that your intelligence can be continually improved upon. Children with a growth mindset see learning as a great challenge. They also believe that they can improve if they put in enough effort.

Children with a growth mindset in mathematics can often be heard saying things such as “mistakes helped me learn.” Or, “I can’t do this problem yet, but I will persevere through it.” Parents can use a growth mindset when speaking with their children by complimenting a child’s intelligence. They may say phrases such as, “You did a great job working through that problem. Your effort will pay off.”

People with a growth mindset know that hard-working effort will pay off in success. They can think reflectively about the changes they can make to be successful. Children need to understand that growth does not mean earning all A’s in school. It means pushing themselves beyond their current capabilities and always doing their best. Part of having a growth mindset is the want to do better and to take risks. Children should be encouraged to explore possibilities, dream big, and back up those dreams with the tools necessary to succeed.

Fear Of Mathematics

Unfortunately, we live in a world that has become acceptable for people to believe that being bad at math is genetic. It has become socially acceptable to be proud of our fear of mathematics. Parents need to be vigilant and aware of their own mindset as it can significantly influence their children. Children always hear what you say and will mimic your behaviour. Helping your child with their growth mindset can be as easy as letting them know that making mistakes is part of the learning process. By instilling a love of learning in your child, you could help them become better problem solvers to persevere and work through their challenges.

A recent study involving middle school students looked at the impact of fixed versus growth mindsets on achievement in math. Students with a growth mindset were shown to understand math operations better and have higher math grades overall than students with a fixed mindset.

Moulding The Brain

The human brain can be moulded much like plastic. It can shrink or grow depending on how we take care of it. This means the more you train your brain to be open to new ideas, the better the chances are that your brain will actually do so. Rewiring the brain to become more familiar with the growth mindset can be challenging, but it can also be done. A great way to help a child with their growth mindset is to encourage them to spend time at night growing their brain. This could include establishing a time frame in your household where everyone works on a math puzzle. Parents need to provide an environment that values learning, first and foremost.

Children who know that a brain can get smarter will do better in school as they become aware that they can take charge of their own learning. Children with a growth mindset will start to understand that failure is all a part of the learning process. However, children with a fixed mindset may focus on how others perceive them, and they may avoid situations in which they might have to work through a challenge.

Get Involved

Overall, the best way for your child to develop a growth mindset is for you, the parent to model one. At Dropkick Math, our math help services work with the parent and child to help build confidence and overcome any learning gaps in mathematics. Our program offers a unique take on math tutoring by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. Visit our website today to learn more about our programs.

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How To Notice Math Around You

How To Notice Math Around You

How To Notice Math Around You

5 Benefits Of Using Online Tutoring Platforms

When it comes to helping children succeed in math, parents have many options. They can hire a tutor to go to their home, send their child to a math learning center, or use an online math tutoring platform. Each of these methods has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. This blog post will discuss the top 5 benefits of using an online math tutoring service. Stay tuned for more information!

The Top 5 Benefits

Whether you are looking for a math tutor for your elementary child or an online math tutor for your high schooler, there are many benefits to using an online tutoring service. The following are the top five reasons you should consider using an online tutoring platform:

Flexibility: One of the best things about online tutoring is the flexibility it offers. You can usually pick what time of day you want to have your sessions and how often you wish to meet. For busy families who have a lot of after-school activities, this can be a game-changer. With Dropkick Math, students can learn when they want. They can log in and access their learning tools at any time.

Tailored programs: With an online tutoring service, your child can choose which study area needs attention. This way of learning is beneficial for students struggling in one particular area or who want to get ahead in a specific section. Dropkick Math addresses deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. All instructors are qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs.  

Learning At A Student’s Own Pace: Online tutoring platforms often have different difficulty levels so that students can learn at their own pace. Our programs are tailored for each student so they can continue at their preferred pace. This is great for kids who want to move ahead quickly or for those who need a little more time to understand the material. 

Cost-Effective: Hiring a one-on-one tutor can be somewhat costly. A single tutor who works locally can charge as much as they like, especially if there is very little competition and high demand. One of the many benefits of hiring an online tutor is that their prices tend to remain competitive. So, you can rest assured that you will be receiving good value for your money. 

An Abundance of Resources: An online tutor’s amount of resources is incredibly diverse and kept up to date. Technology can help to ensure that students have the best chance of achieving success within their chosen subject. Online tutors rely on video chat, messaging services, online tutorials, and many other learning aids. Dropkick Math’s programs combine various teaching methods, including online quizzes, virtual learning, and instant messaging. 

Overall, online tutoring services offer many benefits that can be tailored to each individual student. If your child is struggling in math, or just wants to get ahead, an online tutoring program can help. With a bit of research and guidance, by choosing the right service for your child’s needs, they can begin to thrive in mathematics. These are just a few reasons you should consider using an online tutoring service for your child. 

How Dropkick Math is Different

At Dropkick Math, we are a different kind of online tutor. We are not just an alternative to hiring a one-on-one tutor. Our programs offer a fun way to help your child thrive in mathematics through self-learning. Our unique programs focus on the fundamental misunderstandings your child may have in math and can provide them with the skills they need to keep advancing. We work with your child to understand the underlying problems rather than just focusing on helping them through the material they are learning at school. 

Dropkick Math is dedicated to helping your child reach their potential in math. By providing support in learning the building blocks of mathematics and engaging through fun and exciting games, your child will begin to thrive. Learn more about our programs today!

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Ways To Support Math Learning At Home

Ways To Support Math Learning At Home

Math can be a challenging subject for many students, but there are ways to support math learning at home. Parents can help their children develop strong math skills by providing practice opportunities and offering encouragement. In addition, parents can use resources like online games and apps to supplement at-home learning. By supporting their children’s math education, parents can help them succeed in school and beyond.

For some students and families, math is a topic that can seem intimidating. For adults, math may have been challenging when they were in school, and as a result, some children may feel like they will also be bad at math because of their parent’s history with the subject. However, it is important to remember that everyone learns differently and can improve math skills with practice. There are many resources available to help students of all ages learn math. With a positive attitude and some perseverance, math can be a fun and rewarding subject for everyone.

Problem Solving

Although math is often considered a purely computational subject, today’s math classrooms emphasize problem-solving skills. Rather than simply memorizing formulas and procedures, students are taught to approach math from a more analytical perspective, using logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and heuristics to solve complex math problems. At the same time, however, math teachers still recognize the importance of practicing basic computation skills to prepare students for real-life situations. 

Whether dealing with money, measuring ingredients for a recipe, or working out a budget plan, math can play an essential role in helping us make sense of the world around us. As the old saying goes, “Math is everywhere!” So if you want your child to be a proficient problem solver and truly inspired by math, focus on cultivating their ability to think critically and creatively about math concepts so they can use it in practical ways throughout their lives.

Make Math Fun

Making math fun and available at home is one of the best ways to get a child excited about it. Math is a subject that can be practiced at home to help children be successful students and adults. By adopting a Growth Mindset when it comes to math, children are likely to have greater success academically. This means approaching math with the belief that they can improve with practice and effort. Children will be more likely to persevere when faced with challenging problems with this attitude. They will also be more open to feedback, which can help them learn and grow as math students. So encourage your child to approach math with confidence and watch them succeed.

Helping your child have a growth mindset can help boost their confidence and continue learning new math skills despite school closures and summer breaks. Below are some tips to help support your child’s math education at home. 

Counting – This is one of the most basic skills required to do math, and luckily it is one of the easiest to practice at home. Young children can practise math by counting items around the house. For example, get them to count how many apples are in the kitchen or how many stuffed animals they have in their room. For older children, get them to count objects that have them counting up to 100. Ask them to count the number of straws in a package or books on a bookshelf. Start off small and increase the number of items to build their confidence and skills. 

Adding and Subtracting – After the counting comes addition and subtraction. These are skills that can also be easily practiced at home. Try giving a child four eggs, then six more and ask them to count the total. Similar exercises can be done with subtraction, and once the child understands the concept, they can begin adding and subtracting larger numbers. 

Baking is an excellent way to practice math skills because the right amount of each ingredient is very important. Teach children about the different measurements (teaspoons, tablespoons, cups etc.) and have them measure out ingredients. This can help with their addition and subtraction skills as well as introducing them to fractions and ratios. 

Geometry – Luckily, shapes are everywhere, so it is easy to include learning about geometry at home. Younger children can start by learning to identify shapes in their everyday life and notice what makes these shapes unique. 

For older children, building and creating can be a great activity that requires math skills. Designing shelves to display keepsakes and photos can be a great exercise in geometry and measurements. Other projects such as asking them to imagine designing a new fence for the yard can help them practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division to account for the budget needed for the supplies. More complicated projects around the home can help them with more math skills and provide an even greater challenge. 

Play Games

One of the best ways to help a child with their math skills is to make it fun and exciting. Playing games can be a great way to practice math skills while keeping it entertaining and enjoyable for a child. Various board games and online games can help children practice mathematics. 

Set time aside each week as “game time” and make it fun. You will find that your child looks forward to this time and will start to understand math operations better than they did before. 

Math helps children develop important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and perseverance. It also helps children learn to think abstractly and to see relationships between different concepts. By adopting a growth mindset in math, parents can help their children develop a love for learning and a drive to succeed. Math is an essential part of every child’s education, and by making it part of their daily routine, parents can set their children up for success in school and in life. 

If you notice your child is struggling with math learning, Dropkick Math can help! We offer fun and engaging programs that can help your child overcome their math anxiety or any gaps in learning they may have. Our math help services are run by qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. We offer a different approach to math tutoring with fun and engaging programs to help your child succeed in math. 

Have your child take this FREE assessment to determine if there are any gaps in understanding. We will then provide you with recommended Dropkick Math programs that target the missing knowledge. This will be the key to remediating common misunderstandings that arise from students being introduced to concepts before they are ready or because the concepts are presented in a developmentally inappropriate way. Get started today on your child’s future math success!

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