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Common Mistakes Parents Make When Teaching Math To Their Children

Common Mistakes Parents Make When Teaching Math To Their Children

Picture this: your child, brows furrowed, scratching their head, and hunched over a math workbook, desperately trying to solve a problem. You, on the other hand, are filled with a sense of dread, unsure of how to help them navigate through the numbers and math operations. It’s a scene many parents grapple with, and yet, teaching math to your kids doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. Let’s dive deep and uncover some common mistakes parents make when teaching math to their children. 

There’s no wrong in wanting to help your child understand mathematics, but are you sure you’re doing it right?

From pushing too hard to using outdated teaching methods, parents unknowingly end up creating more confusion than clarity. Let’s unravel these mistakes one by one.

Introduction: Why Teaching Children Math Is Important

Imagine teaching a toddler to ride a bike. You wouldn’t just push them down a hill and hope for the best, right? Similarly, teaching math to your child requires patience, strategy, and a lot of love. 

Mathematics isn’t just about numbers. It’s about critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning skills that are vital in our day-to-day life. Whether it’s managing finances, understanding stats in the news, or even following a recipe, math is omnipresent. 

So what happens when parents get involved in their children’s math lessons? Studies show that parental involvement boosts a child’s confidence, improves their performance, and fosters a positive attitude towards learning. 

However, teaching math isn’t always a walk in the park. Parents often unknowingly make mistakes that can hinder their child’s mathematical development. But don’t fret! Recognizing and rectifying these common errors can make the world of difference in your young scholar’s mathematical journey. Let’s dive in!

Mistake #1: Not understanding the basics of math themselves

Alright, let’s face it. Sometimes parents just don’t “get” math. You’re not alone if you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head at second-grade homework. Here’s the thing, though: Understanding the basics is crucial. 

Lack of math understanding on the parent’s part can lead to incorrect instruction, which in turn can confuse the child even more. Additionally, it may unwittingly convey a negative attitude towards math. 

So, what’s the solution? Well, if you’ve identified gaps in your own math knowledge, it’s time to fill them. Self-education is key here. You might find online courses and math tutoring programs helpful, or even grab a math textbook and start learning! 

Remember: It’s perfectly okay to tell your child, “I don’t know, but let’s find out together.” This approach not only helps both of you learn but also models a great problem-solving attitude!

Mistake #2: Using memorization instead of understanding

Picture this: a child reciting the multiplication table flawlessly, but when asked why 4 times 3 equals 12, they draw a blank. Sound familiar? 

It’s one of the most common blunders parents make when teaching math – relying too heavily on memorization instead of fostering a deep understanding. Sure, rote learning might get your child through the early years, but it’s not sustainable in the long run. 

So, why is this approach problematic? 

  1. It undermines problem-solving skills: Math is more than just numbers and equations – it’s about problem-solving and logical reasoning too. Relying on memorization leaves little room for developing these vital skills, which could set your child up for struggle later on.
  2. It stifles creativity: There’s no one-size-fits-all solution in math. Encouraging memorization over understanding can limit your child’s ability to think creatively and find multiple solutions to a problem.
  3. It leads to shallow understanding: Memorization doesn’t promote a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. This shallow understanding can become a roadblock to more advanced math topics.

Okay, I hear you ask, what’s the better approach then? 

The answer is simple: focus on understanding, not just memorization. Here’s how: 

  • Use real-life scenarios and math learning techniques to explain concepts. This can make math more relatable and less intimidating for your child.
  • Encourage questions. This fosters curiosity and deepens understanding.
  • Teach them that it’s okay to make mistakes. This can eliminate the fear of failure and encourage a growth mindset.

The bottom line? True mathematical proficiency comes from understanding, not just memorizing formulas or equations. 

So next time you sit down to teach your child math, remember: aim for understanding, not just memorization. It’s a small shift in approach, but one that could make a world of difference.

Mistake #3: Focusing too much on grades and not enough on learning

Ever noticed how your child’s face crumples when they bring home a less-than-stellar math test? It’s easy to zero in on grades since they’re the most tangible measure of success. But here’s the scoop – a fixation on grades might actually hinder the learning process! 

Why so? Because grading emphasizes performance over understanding. Your child might memorize formulas and regurgitate them on a test, but do they understand why two negatives make a positive? Maybe, maybe not. 

  • Focusing on grades can lead to a fear of making mistakes. But hey, mistakes are how we learn, right? If your child is scared of messing up, they might steer clear of tricky problems where a lot of learning happens.
  • When grades take center stage, curiosity takes a backseat. Math is not just about numbers, it is about patterns, logic, problem-solving, and yes – it can be fun! But if the aim is just to get the right answer, your child might miss out on the magic.

So, how can you shift the focus from grades to learning? Here are a couple of tips. 

  1. Encourage a growth mindset. Praise effort, not just results. If your child is striving to understand, they’re on the right track!
  2. Get curious together. Next time your child asks, “Why do I have to learn this?”, dive right in! Explore real-world applications or even the history of a particular math concept. You might both learn something new!

Remember, it’s not about the grade on the paper, but the gleam of understanding in your child’s eyes. Let’s make learning math a rewarding journey, not a race to the finish line!

Mistake #4 Not making math a part of everyday life

Parents, we often think math is confined to the classroom, right? Well, it’s high time we break those walls! The biggest mistake we make is not incorporating math into our kid’s everyday lives. 

Here’s the deal: Math is everywhere. It’s in the grocery store when we compare prices, in the kitchen when we measure ingredients, and even in the park when we count the number of birds on a tree. But we often miss these everyday math moments. 

So, what can we do about this? Here are a few tips: 

  • Start simple: Next time you’re cooking with your child, ask them to help with measurements. This makes math tangible and fun.
  • Make math a game: Turn counting or basic arithmetic into a game. It could be as simple as counting the number of red cars you see on a drive.
  • Use technology: There’s a plethora of math apps and websites out there. These resources can make learning math interactive and engaging.

Remember, the key is to make math feel like a natural part of their day, instead of a chore. The more we integrate math into our daily routines, the more our children will see its relevance and feel motivated to learn. 

Math is not just about numbers—it’s a way of thinking!

Mistake #6: Not seeking help when needed

It’s a common myth that math is something you either “get” or you don’t. This binary thinking can sometimes discourage parents from seeking external help when their child is struggling. After all, if they can’t help their child, who can? 

Here’s the reality: Math is a skill, and like any skill, it can be developed with practice and the right guidance. The key is to recognize when you’re in over your head and to seek help when needed. 

Perhaps you’re struggling to explain algebra in a way that your seventh-grader can understand. Or maybe fractions are causing more frustration than they’re worth. Whatever the case may be, it’s okay to admit when you’re stumped and turn to a tutor, a teacher, or even online resources for help. 

Remember, the goal is to help your child succeed, not to prove your own math prowess. As with many things in parenthood, it takes a bit of humility and a lot of love. 

So, don’t be shy about reaching out to math professionals and other educational resources. These experts are trained to teach math in a way that kids can understand and enjoy. Plus, you might even learn a thing or two yourself! 

Learn With Your Child 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we encourage parents to learn alongside their child. This will help with future homework and give parents the understanding of what their child is learning. To learn more about our programs, visit our website and get started with 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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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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How To Save The School Year After A Slow Start

One-On-One Tutoring

There’s no doubt that struggling with some concepts at the start of the school year can be discouraging. Your child may feel like they are falling behind and that it’s impossible to catch up. But they need to remember that it’s not how they start that matters, it’s how they finish. With a little bit of hard work and dedication, they can turn things around and better understand the learning concepts that can help with their future studies.

There are many steps that can be taken to help children with any educational gaps they may be experiencing. Tutoring is a great way to help a child who may be falling behind in learning, especially in mathematics. Tutoring comes in many forms, including one-on-one instruction, virtual tutoring, and group classes. Each type of tutoring can be helpful in different ways, but each interaction can help a child develop ideas and fully understand complex concepts. 

One-On-One Tutoring

Asking questions is an essential part of the learning process, but it can be challenging to do in a large class setting. This can sometimes be the cause of a slow start to a school year. When a child is one of many students competing for a teacher’s attention, it can be easy for them to feel lost in the shuffle. This is why personalized learning opportunities with a one-on-one tutor can be so valuable. Being able to ask questions in a one-on-one environment can make a big difference in academic performance. Many children feel more comfortable asking questions in a personalized setting, and they can also get more out of the conversation. As a result, they can better understand the material and apply it to their coursework.

However, this tactic for performing better in school may be effective, but it isn’t always available or convenient. Many families are busy and may not have time to book a tutor for scheduled lessons. Tutors are also in high demand, so it may be challenging to get a time slot that works for your child. This makes it frustrating for the child and parent as they cannot schedule regular lessons. One-on-one tutors may also not be tailored to individual learning styles or needs. 

Dropkick Math

At Dropkick Math, we are different than traditional math tutoring. 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 offer a fun alternative to one-on-one tutors that can help your child build their confidence and thrive in mathematics through self-learning. 

Our programs focus on the four pillars of math, using engaging, innovative programs. Each module helps students fully understand critical concepts that are the base fundamentals of mathematics. By the end of the program, your child will be able to persevere through challenging math concepts, ask questions for clarification, and learn from valuable mistakes.

Take Action

No one wants to hear that their child struggles in school, but it happens. And when it does, it’s important to take action. Saving a school year, whether it is one class or multiple classes that need a boost, is entirely doable as long as your child has a positive attitude, desire, and a strategy to perform better. Creating a growth mindset is essential for your child’s success in learning. Children with a growth mindset see learning as a great challenge. They also believe that they can improve if they put in enough effort.

Enrolling them in Dropkick Math Academy is the first place to start when needing to save the school year. Our qualified Ontario Certified Teachers can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. In addition, our curriculum is designed to make sure your child grasps concepts quickly and thoroughly. With our help, your child will be able to save their school year after a slow start. 

Is Your Child Struggling With Learning?

It is not uncommon for children to struggle with learning during the start of the school year. Your child may receive a lower-than-expected grade on their progress report card or feel like they don’t understand what their teacher is talking about in class. Regardless of the situation, it’s important to remember that with some help, it is not too late for your child to catch up on their learning. With a little bit of commitment, they can get back on track and make the most of the year. 

Not sure if an online math tutor is for your child? Check out our program descriptions today and learn about each module that can help boost your child’s confidence and set them up with the skills needed for their future. So, don’t waste your time searching for “math tutor near me,” contact Dropkick Math today and get your child the help they need to get back on track. 

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Math is Math! Why Would They Change It?

Math is Math

If your child comes to you for help with their homework, you may be confused when you see how it is being taught. The mathematics that students learn today is most likely highly different from what you learned at school. 

The main thing to keep in mind is that math hasn’t changed. The way it is taught has. Unfortunately, when Ontario shifted mathematics teaching, parents were not informed. This left many frustrated as they realized they did not understand how to help their children in mathematics. 

The shift in the way mathematics is taught was not an overnight decision, although it may seem that way to some parents. Math education had been researched for decades by experts in both the education and mathematics fields, and it was found to be lagging in many areas. 

As society becomes more interconnected and globalized, information and technology are rapidly evolving. Since most information is now readily available through our smartphones or tablets, children need to be better versed in complex decision-making and problem-solving as these are skills that computers are not yet able to help with. 

Major Transformation

We live in a time of significant transformation, which means that children growing up through this period need to receive an education that prepares them for a world of automation and artificial intelligence. According to the 2016 Future of Jobs Report by the World Economic Forum, 65% of children entering primary school today will work end up working in job types and functions that don’t even exist yet. In the 2018 Future of Jobs Report, it was predicted that human skills such as “creativity, originality, initiative, persuasion, negotiation, and critical thinking will be in high demand along with “attention to detail, resilience, flexibility, and complex problem-solving.” This means the education needs to be designed with platforms that mirror what students will meet when they are ready for college or a career. 

The traditional ways of learning are no longer enough to prepare children for the future. There is an urgent need to improve education, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). So, our job as educators and parents is to prepare children for their future by teaching them mathematics that will be useful and applicable in the years to come. 

New Ways Of Thinking

The technological world around us today is forcing students into new ways of thinking, which should be reflected in mathematics instruction. Students need to be both effective and efficient thinkers. Effective thinkers are taught to think long term, which means using longer or more complicated methods for solving problems. This may not always provide an answer at first, but it allows students to develop a foundational understanding of math concepts that will eventually give them the skills to question, critique, and reason to get their answers. 

Efficient thinkers believe that math should be done in steps and procedures that produce an answer as quickly as possible with the least amount of time involved. Parents may remember this type of thinking from the traditional way math was taught by “borrowing,” “carrying,” or “putting a zero.” Many didn’t fully understand the algorithm but did know that it was fast and got them the correct answer. In the past, those who could get an answer quickly were considered good at mathematics.  

Multiple Paths To A Solution

The way that math is taught today prepares children to be creative problem solvers who can find multiple paths to a solution. Students are no longer expected just to get the correct answer; they need to focus on the process. 

Over the past few decades, research has shown that children learn math better when taught through guided discovery. This teaching method provides students with support, but they ultimately develop the math rules themselves, a stark difference from learning them through memorization, as many of us parents experienced. 

Helping Your Child

Dropkick Math is here for you if your child is coming to you for help with their math homework and you don’t understand how it is being taught. We are a type of online math tutor that can help your child understand the fundamentals of mathematics while also educating the parent. By learning alongside your child, we will expose you to new learning strategies your child is experiencing in their classroom. 

It is a common misconception that it is difficult for parents to contribute to their child’s math education. At Dropkick Math, we believe that by working together, both you and your child can learn the fundamentals of math and gain skills that will translate for years to come. 

Many people simply go online and search “math tutor near me,” but this will only get you traditional tutors who may not give you and your child the support you need. As one of the leading math programs in Toronto, Dropkick Math provides support in learning key math skills by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. Get started today by learning more about our programs.

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