Easy Ways To Practice Math With Your Child

For many parents, the prospect of helping their children with math can seem daunting. Fear not if you were a far from a math wiz in school or couldn’t tell a fraction from a decimal. You have the capability to cultivate a love for numbers in your child and here’s how you can do it in an easy and stress-free way. However, let’s address something very crucial first. 

Practicing math with children is not just about calculations or solving problems, it’s about invoking a sense of curiosity, a knack for problem-solving, and ingraining the discipline to work persistently. To do this effectively, a parent’s role is more about encouragement, guidance, and making learning enjoyable.

This article aims to help you understand how to practice math with your child. At Dropkick Math Academy, we focus our online math help to grades 4 – 9, so our suggestions will be aimed at ages between these grades. We will provide simple, practical steps, and gives examples you can immediately put into use. Get ready to turn math from a ‘beast’ into a ‘best friend’ for your child by creating a math playground! 

  1. Make math a part of everyday activities: Going grocery shopping? Why not make it a math learning experience? How? Keep reading to find out more.
  2. Use educational games: There’s no better way to learn than to have fun while doing it. Choosing the right games can make math seem less intimidating and more enjoyable for your child.
  3. Relate math to real-life: The best way to make math seem less abstract is to relate it to real life scenarios. This not only enhances understanding, but also keeps kids interested.
  4. Practice regularly: The key to mastering any skill, including math, is consistent practice. But, how to make this practice less tedious and more fun? Stay tuned with us to find out.
  5. Use online resources: Want to take your math practice sessions to the next level? It’s time to tap into the treasure trove of online resources that can help your child excel in math. We’ll guide you on how to pick the right ones.

Remember, the goal is not to make your child a human calculator, but to foster an environment where they feel confident about working with numbers. Strap on for an enlightening journey to making math fun!

Introducing Math In Everyday Activities

As a parent, you’ll often find yourself searching for ways to make learning less mundane and more exciting for your kids. Math, in particular, has often been the unsuspecting culprit, feared and misunderstood by many. However, integrating math into your child’s daily routine can transform and demystify the subject. So, let’s dive into some practical ways to introduce math into everyday activities.

Using Games to Practice Math Skills

Think back to the games which spark your child’s interest and excitement and imagine if you could incorporate mathematical concepts into them. It’s feasible and not as hard as it sounds! Let’s delve into this innovative way of practicing math with your child. 

Board Games 

Among the simplest ways to turn fun into education is integrating math into board games. Counting spaces in games such as Monopoly or Snakes and Ladders will improve your child’s number skills. For older kids, games like Risk and Settlers of Catan can enhance their understanding of probability and strategic thinking, which are mathematical concepts. 

Puzzles 

Puzzles are yet another engaging way to hone math skills. With younger children, simple puzzles that involve shape recognition can help to boost their geometry knowledge. As they mature, puzzles like Sudoku or Rubik’s cube can challenge them to think logically and improve spatial reasoning skills. 

Card Games 

Card games can be math gold mines too. Games like “Blackjack” can encourage kids to use strategic thinking to add up or subtract numbers for a winning combination. Another card game, “UNO,” can aid in building skills in number identification and sequencing, while “Memory Match” promotes pattern recognition and simple addition or subtraction processes. 

Electronic Games 

In this digital age, don’t shy away from using technology for learning purposes. There are numerous interactive math games online or as apps, suitably designed for different age groups. From number sequencing to complex problem-solving, these games can provide a diverse range of math skills practice. 

Remember, your role is not just to introduce these games, but to actively engage in them with your child. This participation not only enhances their learning but also strengthens the bond between you and your child. As you play together, you might find yourselves lost in a world of fun and forget that you’re even practicing math! 

A Friendly Reminder 

Games are a wonderful way to practice math skills, but they should be balanced with traditional learning methods for best outcomes. Remember to tailor these activities according to your child’s age, skill level, and interest. 

Incorporating Math Into Cooking And Baking

There is an underestimated world of mathematics hiding in your kitchen. In fact, tasks like cooking and baking can provide a practical and fun environment for learning math. From measuring ingredients to determining the cooking time, you can introduce various math concepts like fractions, ratios, and times tables. 

Understanding Fractions and Measurements 

One of the most valuable math skills your child can learn from cooking and baking is understanding fractions. When you use measuring cups and spoons, it’s inevitable that you deal with fractions such as 1/2, 1/3, or 3/4. This can help your child visualize fractions in a practical setting, making them easier to understand. 

Try asking your child questions like “If we need 3/4 of a cup of sugar and we have a 1/2 cup and a 1/4 cup, how many of each should we use?” This inquiry stimulates their thought processes and helps reinforce their understanding of addition with fractions. 

Practicing Ratios 

Many recipes require ingredients to be mixed in certain ratios. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss and practice the concept of ratios with your child. For instance, you might explain that if a salad dressing recipe calls for 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar, this means they’ll need to use three times as much oil as vinegar. 

This hands-on approach can significantly assist your child in visualizing and internalizing the concept of ratios, which may seem abstract when looked upon in textbooks. 

Using Times Tables 

Aside from understanding fractions and ratios, baking and cooking can also help your child practice their multiplication tables – a vital mathematical skill. Let’s say a recipe calls for 4 mini muffins, but you want to make 12. Here, your child will need to multiply all the quantities by 3 to get the correct measurements for 12 muffins. This reinforces the use of multiplication in everyday life

Grasping Time Management 

Baking and cooking also involve an understanding of time. If the recipe says to bake for 30 minutes and it took 10 minutes to preheat the oven, you could ask your child, “What time will we need to take the cake out of the oven?” By doing this, you’re honing their ability to add and subtract time—an essential everyday skill. Furthermore, it familiarizes them with the concept of time management. 

Nurturing Problem-Solving Abilities 

Cooking and baking are more than just procedures; they also involve problem-solving. For example, suppose your recipe is for a large cake, but you only have small tins. How will your child adjust the cooking time? Or if half the cake mix spills, how will they alter the ratios of the remaining ingredients? These problems can stimulate their analytical capacities, strengthening their abilities to solve real-world math problems. 

To conclude, it is crucial to remember that, while making math fun through cooking and baking, safety remains paramount. Always be with your child in the kitchen to supervise and guide them, particularly when handling sharp tools or dealing with heat.

Taking Math Outside: Nature-Based Math Activities

Every child loves spending time outside, and what better way to make the most of a sunny day than to incorporate a few math activities into your child’s outdoor routine? This method not only helps your child understand math concepts in a fun, hands-on way, but it also allows them to appreciate the natural world around them. Before you head outside with your child, let’s explore a few easy, nature-based math activities you can try. 

Counting with Nature 

Counting is one of the most fundamental math skills your child needs to learn. To make this activity more enjoyable, use nature’s bounty. Collect rocks, leaves, flowers, or twigs, and work with your child to group these items based on specific characteristics, such as color, size, or shape. By doing this, your child can practice counting, identifying patterns, and classifying items. 

Outdoor Geometry 

Did you know that geometry is all around us in nature? For example, you can explore symmetrical patterns on leaves or in flowers, measure angles in branches, or even look for various shapes in the clouds. Encourage your child to use a notebook to sketch and identify the different geometric shapes they find in the natural world. 

Graphing in the Garden 

Whether you have a flourishing backyard or a modest planter box, gardening can be an excellent math teaching tool. Ask your child to help you plant seeds, keep track of plant growth, or learn about the importance of different variables in plant development. They can use a graph paper to record their observations and draw conclusions based on these recordings. 

Nature Walk Measurement 

During a nature walk, you can incorporate math by measuring and recording different items found along the way. This could be the height of a tree, the size of a leaf, or the distance between two points. Understanding measurements and how to use them is an essential part of math learning. It helps your child develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.  

Math Scavenger Hunt 

Conduct a math scavenger hunt by creating a list of items your child needs to find outdoors. These items should involve some math-related tasks like finding a rock that is 5 inches in diameter or locating three different types of leaves with a particular shape. This interactive activity not only stimulates your child’s curiosity but also nurtures their problem-solving skills. 

A vital reminder while embarking on these nature-based math activities is to encourage your child to ask questions and make observations with each activity. This will foster their curiosity and make learning math feel like a fun adventure rather than a chore. So, let’s head outdoors and make math a memorable experience for your child!

A Rewarding And Educational Experience

Practicing math with your child can be a rewarding and educational experience when you choose the right approach. Now that we’ve seen how to incorporate math into everyday activities, there’s no excuse not to give it a try. Not only does this strategy align with your child’s learning pace, but it also nurtures an appreciation for the real-life applications of mathematics.

We hope that our tips and examples will inspire you to create math sessions that are as enjoyable as they are informative. Remember, the best way to enhance your child’s math skills is by creating a math playground that engages them with interactive exercises that stimulate their curiosity and passion for learning.

A math session doesn’t have to be intimidating or monotonous. Instead, it should inspire your child to explore, observe, and learn. And remember, don’t rush the process. The goal is to foster a genuine understanding of math principles and not memorization.  

In the end, it’s all about finding joy in learning. By guiding your child through the wonders of mathematics in a friendly and engaging manner, you are equipping them with a skill set that will prove invaluable in many aspects of life. 

Is Your Child Left Brained?

As parents, we all want our children to excel and reach their fullest potential. However, knowing how best to support them can be difficult when each child is unique and has different needs. One way you, as a parent, can better understand your child’s strengths is to recognize whether they are predominantly left-brained or right-brained. Learning more about your child’s learning styles and strengths can also help when looking for an online math tutor. 

In this blog post, we’ll provide insight into what makes someone left-brained, the benefits of being left-brained, and ways you can help your child nurture these characteristics in themself for maximum success in academics and beyond. Read on to find out how YOUR CHILD could be naturally gifted with certain traits!

What is Left-Brain Dominance?

The theory of left-brain dominance suggests that left-brained individuals are more analytical, logical, and sequential in their thinking. They tend to be good at math and science, enjoy problem-solving, and prefer structure and routine.

On the other hand, right-brained individuals are thought to be more creative, intuitive, and holistic in their thinking. They tend to be good at visual-spatial tasks, enjoy art and music, and prefer flexibility and spontaneity.

While this theory may seem straightforward, research has shown that it is not accurate to say that people are either left-brained or right-brained. The brain is a complex organ and both hemispheres work together in most tasks. However, some individuals may have a dominant hemisphere depending on their experiences and environment.

How Can You Tell if Your Child is Left-Brained?

Determining whether your child is left-brained or not can be challenging. While there are no definitive tests or assessments, some clues may suggest left-brain dominance. These include:

  • Strong logical thinking skills
  • A preference for math and science over art and music
  • A tendency to follow routines and rules
  • A love for structured activities, such as puzzles and games
  • An interest in problem-solving and critical-thinking exercises

It’s important to note that these traits are not exclusive to left-brain dominance and that every child is unique. As a parent, it’s essential to avoid labelling your child as left-brained or right-brained and instead focus on their individual strengths and interests.

How Can Left-Brain Dominance Impact Your Child?

If your child exhibits left-brain dominance traits, it’s important to understand how this may impact their development and learning. Some potential effects include:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills: Children with left-brain dominance tend to excel in math and science and may enjoy puzzles and logic games. They may also be good at identifying patterns and making connections between different concepts.
  • Difficulty with creative tasks: Left-brained Children may struggle with creative tasks such as art and music. These activities require a more holistic, open-minded approach that may not come naturally to left-brain dominant individuals. It’s important to provide opportunities for creativity and encourage your child to explore different forms of self-expression.
  • A preference for routine and structure: Left-brain dominant children may appreciate routines and structure in their daily lives. However, balancing this with opportunities for flexibility and spontaneity is important to help them develop a well-rounded skill set.
  • Potential for overthinking and perfectionism: Left-brain dominant individuals tend to be analytical and detail-oriented, which can lead to overthinking and perfectionism. It’s crucial to help your child develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety and promote a healthy work-life balance.

How Can You Support Your Left-Brained Child?

As a parent, there are several things you can do to support your left-brained child. These include:

  • Providing opportunities for problem-solving and critical-thinking exercises
  • Encouraging your child to explore different areas of interest, including creative activities
  • Balancing structure and routine with opportunities for flexibility and spontaneity
  • Helping your child develop stress-management strategies and a healthy work-life balance

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that every child is unique and that brain dominance is just one aspect of their individuality. By focusing on your child’s strengths and interests, you can help them develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for success in life.

Finding The Right Online Math Tutor

Finding the right math tutor near you can be overwhelming, especially when you consider your child’s unique learning style. If your child is more right-brained, they may benefit from a tutor who uses visuals and interactive techniques to teach math concepts. On the contrary, if your child is more left-brained, they may excel in a traditional online tutoring program. 

Identifying your child’s learning style can help you choose the right tutor who can provide an effective and engaging learning experience. By understanding your child’s learning style, you can find the perfect match for them and help them excel in their math studies.

Left-Brained Children in Dropkick Math Academy

At Dropkick Math Academy, we understand that every child is unique and learns differently. That’s why we have designed our programs to cater to the needs of both left-brained and right-brained learners. Our teaching methods are carefully structured to ensure that children who tend to think logically and analytically and those who lean towards creativity and intuition are given a chance to achieve their full potential. 

With our innovative approach, we help children enhance their natural talents and improve their weaknesses. At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe every child deserves the chance to excel, and we strive to ensure that our programs make that goal achievable for all learners.

Certified Ontario Teachers

At Dropkick Math Academy, we take pride in our certified Ontario teachers and their expertise in identifying the nuances of right-brained and left-brained learning styles. Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all approaches, our programs emphasize incorporating a range of teaching styles to meet the individual needs of every child. Our teachers understand that not everyone learns in the same way and are experienced in adapting their methods to help children succeed in their studies. Dropkick Math Academy is the right choice for you if you’re looking for a tutoring experience that caters to your child’s unique learning style.

Learn more about our math programs in Toronto and the surrounding areas, and get started with our FREE assessment to see how your child could benefit from our classes. 

What Is Positive Math Talk?

Mathematics is one of the subjects that has been stereotyped as difficult and uninteresting, which has resulted in a general dislike for it. This notion is so prevalent that North America has turned into a society of people who think it’s cool, hip, and even trendy to hate math. 

Countless students would rather skip school than attend a math class where they will have to learn math operations or equations. However, math is an essential skill that helps individuals in their everyday lives, from simple activities such as counting change to complex problem-solving skills required in various professions. The hate of math, mainly perpetuated by society, can hinder progress both personally and globally. However, with a better understanding of the importance of math, the fear and hatred of this subject can gradually decrease.

The Good News

The good news is that in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the importance of having positive conversations with young mathematicians to help counteract the negative feeling towards mathematics. Positive math talk is an approach to teaching mathematics that emphasizes building a positive attitude towards math and problem-solving by using language that encourages students to think positively and be open to trying new things.

By promoting positive math talk, educators and parents can create an environment where children feel comfortable taking risks and asking questions without fear of being judged or punished. Studies have shown that when teachers use more positive statements in their classrooms, students tend to have better attitudes toward math and experience less anxiety about the subject.

How To Speak Positively

As parents or caregivers, we often unintentionally use language around math that can have negative effects on our children’s attitudes toward the subject. Instead of asking if math homework is difficult or if they hate math, reframing our phrasing to focus on growth and effort can be helpful. 

Positive math talk can come in many forms, including open-ended questioning techniques, encouraging productive dialogue between parent/teacher and student, offering praise for successful attempts at problem-solving, and providing helpful feedback when mistakes are made. 

Asking how a child approached a problem or what strategies they used can encourage a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as opportunities to learn and improve. Using phrases like “math is fun” and “you can do this” can foster a positive attitude towards math and set our children up for success. 

Some easy examples of positive math talk to start with are:

Instead of: I was never good at math. 
Try: Let’s try to learn this together.

Instead of: You will never use this math in real life.
Try: This math is teaching you good problem-solving skills.

Instead of: I hate math.
Try: This isn’t my favourite topic, but I enjoy a good challenge. 

Instead of: You should be getting this.
Try: Let’s take a break and try again. 

The key point of positive math talk is that its goal is not necessarily to make every student a math genius; rather, it is meant to foster a healthy attitude towards mathematics among all students regardless of skill level or interest in the subject. It seeks to make learning enjoyable so that each individual has something valuable he or she can take away from it. 

Positive math talk also helps create an environment where everyone feels free to discuss different approaches and make mistakes without feeling judged or criticized for doing so. This allows for creativity and experimentation, ultimately leading to more meaningful learning experiences.

Children Can Pick Up Parent’s Math Anxiety

For many parents, math can be a touchy subject that brings up feelings of anxiety and stress. However, it’s important to remember that our children often pick up on these emotions and can develop their own negative attitudes toward math. It’s crucial to take deliberate steps to prevent this from happening. 

Whether it’s finding a math tutoring company or attending parent-teacher conferences, investing in our children’s math education can help break the cycle of anxiety and make math a more positive experience for all.

At Dropkick Math Academy, we provide a unique environment for parents to participate actively in their child’s learning experience and encourage them to learn together. 

As a parent, being involved in the learning process helps create a more meaningful experience for your child and encourages them to take ownership of their education. Dropkick Math Academy gives parents the resources to join in along and support their children during the classes and monitor progress throughout the program.

Education experts have found that parental involvement leads to higher grades, improved behaviour in school, and greater education aspirations for the child. Additionally, parents play a crucial role in instilling essential values like hard work, determination, and self-discipline. We also help parents use positive math talk so they can ensure they are not passing on any math anxiety they may have. 

Be Mindful Of The Words Used

By utilizing positive conversations with young mathematicians, educators and parents can help create an environment where everyone feels comfortable attempting challenging problems without fear of failure or negative consequences associated with making mistakes. 

While some degree of structure must still be maintained within this context, such as ensuring accuracy during problem-solving tasks and following directions from the teacher carefully – focusing on building strong relationships through positive interaction provides real advantages when helping children learn mathematics effectively.

At Dropkick Math, we provide programs for students in grades 4 – 9, including all abilities. Our instructors are passionate about making math fun and assisting students in understanding the importance of this subject. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child succeed in math with our math learning techniques. 

How Do Our Experiences With Math Affect Our Children?

It’s no secret that math is a cornerstone of modern society, but how does our experience with math affect our children? Children learn from their parents and other adults, so it stands to reason that how we relate to math can shape how our children understand and approach the subject.

In today’s post, we’ll explore how our experience with math might impact our children and discuss strategies for promoting a positive attitude towards mathematics within the home. Furthermore, we will take a look at how our math tutoring programs offer an innovative way for parents to learn alongside their children. 

Math Anxiety

Math anxiety is a real and challenging problem for many individuals who have had negative experiences with math in the past. As parents, we don’t often think about how our past experiences could affect our children’s learning, but studies show just how much of an impact it can have. 

While many factors can contribute to math anxiety, one that is often overlooked is a teacher’s engagement level. It’s easy to dismiss a teacher’s behaviour as irrelevant to student success, but studies show that a disengaged teacher can actually cause significant damage to a student’s mindset. 

When a teacher gives off signals that they don’t care about the subject matter or the students, it can lead to a lack of motivation, confusion, and ultimately poor performance. This is particularly true in math, which is already a challenging subject for many students.

Believe it or not, if you had a math teacher in your past that contributed to your math anxiety, it could now be affecting your child’s learning. If you find yourself unmotivated to figure out math concepts or shy away from doing chores that rely on math, such as personal taxes or finances, you are setting a scene for your child to think math may be too difficult for them to learn as well. 

Other than unengaging teachers, math anxiety can also be caused by a lack of resources or simply feeling overwhelmed with complex concepts and not getting the help needed. No matter what led to your math anxiety, it is essential to recognize the impact that math anxiety may have on one’s life and how it may be affecting your child’s relationship with math. 

The Good News

The good news is that math anxiety can be overcome with proper guidance and support, and individuals can develop a newfound confidence in their math abilities. With the right mindset, resources, and practice, anyone can easily become skilled at math and tackle any mathematical problem. This is where Dropkick Math Academy can help! 

Traditionally, math tutoring has been one-on-one sessions or group classes led by a tutor. But at Dropkick Math Academy, we believe learning should be collaborative between parents and children. 

Our approach involves teaching parents how to assist their children in mastering math concepts so that learning becomes a team effort. We provide online resources, including video tutorials and engaging games, to make learning enjoyable and engaging for both parents and children. By working together, we believe that children can achieve academic success, and parents can feel confident in their ability to support their children’s education.

Speaking Of Math…

First, it’s important to remember that when we talk about “math”, we’re talking about much more than just equations or numbers. Math involves problem-solving skills, logical reasoning, creative thinking, and the ability to make connections between different concepts. As such, having a positive attitude towards mathematics can help ensure that kids develop these important skills in a supportive environment.

Keeping in mind that math isn’t all about working out problems on paper, experiencing math can be done throughout our daily lives. By incorporating math learning into daily activities, you can show your child how much math is truly used every day. For example, when going to the grocery store, talk about the prices out loud. Explain discounts on items and have your child help you figure out the best choices of items that may be on sale. 

If you tend to shy away from math concepts and don’t feel that you have the confidence you should have, talking things through with your child may help you understand it more too! Just remember that you use math so much in your daily life that you probably don’t even think about it anymore. 

You use it when checking the change the cashier gives you at the gas station, when figuring out when you need to leave your house to get your kids to hockey on time, and even when whipping up a batch of chocolate chip cookies. Math is around us everywhere, and you use it more than you know!

As parents, we often forget that everything we say or do can have an impact on our children- and that involves how we speak about mathematics. So, next time you encounter a scenario with math, make it a learning experience and talk it through with your child!

Positive Reinforcement

One way to promote enthusiasm for learning math among children is by providing positive reinforcement. You may not have had the positive reinforcement you should have as a child, but it is never too late to start with your child. Whenever they solve a difficult problem or complete an assignment successfully, be sure to recognize their efforts and give them credit for trying. This will help them realize that even though math is sometimes challenging, they can still be successful if they apply themselves. 

Additionally, it’s important not to become frustrated with children if they are struggling with a concept; instead, offer patience and support as they work through more difficult topics. Understanding that mistakes are part of learning ––and nothing to be ashamed of––can go a long way in fostering self-confidence when approaching mathematical problems down the line.

Work On It Together

As parents, we all want to help our children succeed, but when math questions come into the picture, it can feel overwhelming. However, telling your children that you are not good at math is not the answer. Try making an effort to work through it with them. 

This not only shows our support for their learning, but it can also help you brush up on your own math skills. Encourage your child to explain the problem to you, and you can tackle it together. Math may not come naturally to everyone, but with practice and patience, both you and your child can improve.

As we mentioned earlier, our math programs in Toronto and the surrounding area offer an excellent way for you to learn alongside your child. At Dropkick Math, we believe relationships are the primary key to learning success. Our trained instructors offer a fun and engaging way to learn for both parent and child to understand the building blocks of mathematics.  

Show An Interest

Finally, it’s vital that parents show their own interest in mathematics so their kids can do the same! Modelling behaviour such as studying books related to mathematics subjects during spare time or listening attentively during parent-teacher conferences on progress made will demonstrate how seriously you take the importance of mathematical development in your children’s lives, which may encourage them to take more interest as well.

Understanding how our experiences with math shape our children’s attitudes is vital for ensuring lifelong success in this critical subject area. Positive reinforcement and engaging activities centered around mathematics are just two ways parents can foster excitement around mathematics from an early age while helping cultivate core problem-solving skills in preparation for upcoming years. 

Before hitting Google and searching for “math tutor near me,” check out our website and learn how we involve parents in their child’s learning. Our math tutoring programs offer an innovative and engaging way to get parents and children alike excited to learn mathematics!

Unlocking The Power of Mental Math

Are you ready to take your child’s math skills to the next level? Unlocking the power of mental math can give them a competitive edge, allowing them to solve problems quickly and accurately. Mental mathematics improves problem-solving ability and cultivates practical thinking abilities that will serve children in myriad ways throughout their lives. 

Equipping your child with this valuable skill gives them an advantage for success both now and in future years. Keep reading to learn more about how parents can empower learners through mental mathematics!

What Is Mental Math?

Mental math is a type of mental calculation which entails completing mathematical computations using cognitive processes, as opposed to the traditional approach of writing down equations and working them out with pencil and paper. It involves memorizing facts, recalling numerical relationships and understanding the principles behind calculations. In short, it is doing math in your head without using a pencil and paper or a calculator.  

Mental math encompasses simple arithmetic sums, such as addition or subtraction, all the way to problems of more advanced complexity. It includes various mental strategies for finding solutions quickly by employing a variety of mental cues and approaches. People who are proficient at mental math can often do complex mental calculations faster than those who rely on mechanical methods, even though both yield the same result.

How Is Mental Math Used In Everyday Life

While the idea of mental math may cause some to run away in a fit of anxiety, you may be surprised to learn that we use it in everyday life. Anytime math seems scary, it can be helpful to point out how we already use it without even realizing it. 

For example, if your child is anxious about mental math, help them see how they use it daily. Mental math is used in situations such as computing the sale price for an item at a store. Or for working out whether they have enough money to buy something from a store. They also use mental math to ensure they get the correct change from the cashier or even to figure out when they need to leave the house to get to school on time. 

Once children (and some parents!) understand that mental math doesn’t have to be scary, it can help them to understand math concepts better. Practicing mental math regularly can help children improve their number sense. 

To help your child practice their mental math, try giving examples of real-life situations for them to work out without using a pencil, paper, or calculator. For example:

Which is a better deal?

Purchasing a box of 10 packs of gum for $18.00 or buying individual packages for $2.25 each? Help them see that by using mental math, they can quickly estimate that the 10-pack must cost less than $2.00 per package because 10 x 2 = 20. Explain how this is a better deal because, individually, the packages cost more than $2.00.

Getting To The Answer Quickly

Some children may like to hear that mental math can actually get to the answer more quickly. Breaking down numbers into values makes it easier for some children to understand complex equations. 

For example, ask your child:

What is 48 + 66?

Explain to your child that these large numbers may seem daunting at first, but breaking them down can help. It is easier to do in their head if they start by adding 40 + 60 = 100 and then 8 + 6 = 14. They can then add those two numbers together to get the answer of 114. 

With Dropkick Math tutoring, we understand that mental math is an essential skill that needs to be practiced, as repetition is vital. Children need to repeat their multiplication tables and be able to use other data for mathematical computation. 

To learn mental math at home, flashcards can be an excellent learning aid. Brain teasers can also be a clever way to help your child understand how numbers work. Puzzles and riddles such as Sudoku and crosswords can help to improve their mental math ability while providing a fun and engaging activity. 

If all of this is enough to give you, the parent, nightmares, don’t worry. At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in educating parents and children together. We want parents to learn alongside their children so you are better equipped to help them when they come to you for help with their homework. Working together can help instill confidence and a passion for learning in your child.

Memory Skills Required 

Mental math requires excellent memory skills as math facts and other number concepts must be retrieved from long-term memory. The brain also uses working memory during mental math, which helps keep track of the steps needed to solve a particular problem. 

At this point, you may be wondering why it is important for children to learn mental math since, in this day and age, we all have a calculator handy on our smartphones. Mental math is vital to a child’s development because it helps to stimulate the brain. Math skills exercise the left brain, while mental math can help stimulate the right side. This helps your child grow their creativity. And as an added bonus, as mentioned above, it can also help give their memory a workout. 

Many online activities can help your child practice their mental math skills. Here at Dropkick Math Academy, we teach children mental math strategies for faster calculations. Our virtual programs can engage your child and help to improve their mental math abilities, so they have the foundation needed for future mathematical success. 

If your child is struggling with mental math, it doesn’t mean they are not smart. Children all develop mental math skills at their own pace and may just need more time and practice to catch up. Our certified Ontario teachers understand how children learn and can offer personalized learning thanks to our small class sizes. Our math tutoring programs provide a unique way for students to learn math fundamentals and have fun doing it!

Learn more about our programs and how we use game-based learning to make math fun and engaging for your child. 

Beyond The Classroom: How Math Is Used In The Real World

Most parents consider math a necessary but often unpleasant subject for their children to learn in school. However, mathematics has many applications outside the classroom and is used in everyday life all over the world. In this blog post, we’ll explore how math can be applied to real-world scenarios, helping you show your kids just how applicable (and enjoyable!) learning math can be when it translates into something they care about. 

Whether they’re interested in engineering or fashion design, understanding basic mathematical principles will help them find success both now and in the future! Read on to learn more about why giving your child a broader understanding of mathematics is so important.

Math Can Be Challenging

Mathematics is a subject that many students find challenging and intimidating. Often viewed as an abstract concept that exists only within the confines of a textbook or classroom, math is actually an essential tool used in countless real-world applications.

As parents, many of us remember how hard it was to imagine that we would ever need the algebra equations and geometry formulas drilled into our brains during our school years. We were probably asking ourselves, “when in the world am I ever going to use this?” Little did we know, math permeates our lives, even today! From balancing a budget to ensuring your children get the right amount of candy when they go trick-or-treating with their friends – parents rely on everyday math more often than they realize.

Now that we know how helpful mathematics is in the real world, it is time to teach our children. Knowing the applications of math in the real world can help children understand how crucial it is to learning and to everyday life. Instead of stressing children out over addition and subtraction, explain how many professions use mathematics – engineering, astrophysics, computer science, physics, fashion design, hair stylist, carpenters and even chefs! – in their operations. Then watch the children embrace math!

When children know that the equations of a triangle can be used to build bridges or the movement of planets can be predicted through calculations, they’ll look upon math with new appreciation. This is especially important for older children when deciding what career path to take

Examples Of Math Used In The Real World

We understand it can be challenging to come up with examples of math in the real world when put on the spot by your child, so let’s take a look at some common examples:

Finance

Math has significant applications in finance. Household finances are a great example to show your child. Without proper math education, balancing accounts, estimating expenses, and calculating savings can be difficult.  

Outside of the home, analysts use statistics and probability theory to analyze market trends, evaluate risk, and make investment decisions in the financial world. Actuaries use mathematical models to calculate insurance premiums based on factors such as age, health status, and driving history.

Mathematical tools like calculus are also used in financial modelling to predict future asset values such as stocks or bonds.

Engineering and Technology

Math is also integral to the field of engineering and technology. Engineers use mathematical concepts to design structures, machines, and systems. For example, civil engineers use calculus to design bridges and skyscrapers that can withstand weight and pressure. Electrical engineers use complex numbers to describe electrical circuits and signals. Computer programmers rely on algorithms and logic to create software programs.

Math is also crucial in technological advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These fields involve complex mathematical models that enable computers to learn from data sets and make predictions.

Medicine

Math plays an essential role in medicine, helping medical professionals and researchers take on many of their most complex tasks. In medical school, math is taught as part of the curriculum so students can understand basic concepts like frequency and probability while learning more specialized medical knowledge topics. 

For example, math can be used to understand disease progression better, help diagnose illnesses, and optimize treatment protocols. Additionally, math allows researchers to understand how different drugs interact with the body and develop equations to create lifesaving medications. With the application of math increasing across all aspects of the healthcare industry, it’s clear that math is an indispensable part of modern medicine.

Architecture

Architects use geometry extensively when designing buildings. Math helps architects determine construction project angles, lengths, and proportions. They also utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software which requires knowledge of algebraic concepts like matrices.

Sports Analytics

Sports teams have started using analytics more widely over recent years, with mathematicians playing a key role behind the scenes. By analyzing large datasets containing information about players’ performances, teams can identify strategies needed for success. This way, they can optimize player performance by identifying key metrics that lead to wins.

Significant Applications

In conclusion, mathematics has significant applications beyond textbooks or classrooms. From engineering, finance, medicine, and analytics, it plays an integral part in real-world scenarios enabling us to solve complex problems we face every day. 

It’s critical we teach our children to understand its importance beyond academic settings so they can appreciate how mathematics shapes their daily lives. It may also drive them to succeed at math class, knowing they will need it for a future career. So next time your child is faced with a challenging math problem, remind them that it could be their gateway towards understanding something new about an exhilarating career in their future!

Our Programs

At Dropkick Math Academy, we know the importance of teaching children about math in everyday life and in the workplace. Our programs focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning), which ensure that all students understand the fundamentals of mathematics. Our programs also offer a view of how math is used in the real world. 

So, if your child comes to you asking, “how do we use math outside of school?” you are now equipped with some solid answers. Nothing is worse than a student deciding on their educational path after high school only to learn that they need extra math credit to begin their journey. By understanding how math is used in the real world, they will be better equipped to make decisions when continuing their math education.  

Learn more about our programs today, and start your child on their path to success! 

Why Is It So Hard To Help With Your Child’s Math Homework?

Do you ever feel like a fish out of water when helping your child with their math homework? The pressures of parenting can make it difficult to help, especially if you have limited knowledge about what’s being asked on the assignment. No matter if it’s basic arithmetic or higher level algebra questions, supporting our kids in mastering this subject can seem daunting and overwhelming for any parent. But don’t worry–it doesn’t have to be so hard! Dropkick Math Academy offers online math help for both parent and child. 

Read on to learn why parents often struggle to assist their children with math homework. We will also provide strategies to help tackle tricky problems easier so you can become an effective facilitator who supports, rather than frustrates, your child’s learning journey.

Has Math Changed?

When your child asks for homework help, it can be an eye-opening experience. Technology has made its mark on the educational system, and math lessons are no exception. Despite many advances in technology, math has always retained its basic principles. So, in short, math hasn’t changed, but how it is being taught has. 

This may explain why it is so hard to help children with their homework. Parents have not been taught mathematics the same way that children today learn it.   

To ensure children remain competitive, math literacy is an important focus in their education. Teaching math skills is no longer just about solving equations and memorizing facts. It involves engaging them with higher-order math concepts such as problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, and algorithmic thinking to prepare them for the automated future of workflows and improved public services enabled by artificial intelligence. 

Math education should be seen as a gateway to drive innovation and help children understand the interplay between technology, automation and virtual collaboration so they can thrive in our interconnected digital world.

While this may sound intimidating to most parents, learning this new way of thinking about mathematics is vital to help your child along their educational journey. 

Finding Multiple Ways To A Solution

Math is no longer about memorizing formulas and crunching numbers. Today, math education focuses on teaching children the skills to be creative problem solvers. Rather than merely looking for one right answer, students must take a deep dive and think analytically to find multiple paths that lead to the same solution. 

They are encouraged and trained to recognize patterns, identify relationships between concepts, judge cause and effect, and use reason to connect math with real-world applications. By focusing on the process, math teaches students concepts and how to think more critically and effectively by using math in everyday situations.

“The highest achieving kids in the world are the ones who see math as a big web of interconnected ideas, and the lowest achieving students in the world are the kids who take a memorization approach to math,” said education author Dr. Jo Boaler

Unlike traditional math classes that used to rely solely on lecture-style teaching, modern math instruction focuses on encouraging hands-on activities in which students can explore math concepts and make connections between fundamental math theories. 

By combining visual aids like videos, models, and interactive software with textbooks, modern math instructors are able to provide more engaging educational experiences that help students better understand complex math concepts.  

Math manipulatives are also a great way to help children understand math concepts and for them to learn how to look at equations in various ways. By utilizing math manipulatives, children can start to understand that there are often many ways to find a solution. 

Asking Questions

When working with your child on their homework, there are some questions you can ask them that will help both of you understand the tasks at hand. By asking the right questions, children can find multiple paths that lead to the same solution, figure out the concepts behind math questions, and show they truly understand basic math foundations.  

“What if?” is an excellent question to ask your child when they are learning math. The question “What if?” is known to be at the root of innovation, experimentation, and play and allows children to contemplate questions beyond their immediate understanding. It can help to fuel curiosity, a deeper understanding, and intellectual breakthroughs. 

“What is going on here?” is another example of a question that can help children look for the underlying structure of a problem. This simple question is an excellent way to check if your child truly understands the concepts or if they have just memorized them. 

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. 

By asking simple questions, parents can help their children better understand the root of mathematics and ensure they don’t just have an illusion of learning. 

An Education Grounded In STEM

Math has never been more important than it is today. We must provide our children with the math skills that will enable them to thrive in this rapidly changing world. Educators and parents must prioritize math learning and provide an education grounded in concepts of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). 

Traditional teaching methods are no longer enough to prepare students for their future roles properly- math instruction needs to reflect the changing landscape of society and its reliance on math-centric occupations. 

By shifting math instruction away from traditional learning activities, math can be presented in a way that is applicable to students’ lives, resulting in increased motivation and success in math performance. As educators and parents, it is our duty to ensure that our children receive valuable math instruction so they can realize their potential and become fully prepared for what lies ahead. This includes becoming educated ourselves so we can effectively help our children. 

How You Can Help Your Child

It’s important to take a step back and realize that homework assistance doesn’t necessarily mean knowing the answers but instead being a resource for guidance as your child learns something new. With the help of Dropkick Math Academy (and a little patience and determination), homework doesn’t have to feel like a struggle for either of you.

Dropkick online math help is elevating the way parents and their children learn math. Dropkick Math Academy’s programs aim to put parents alongside kids so they can learn together with fun, engaging activities. With Dropkick Math Academy’s approach, parents develop an understanding of the math being taught and support their children in a hands-on way. Dropkick Math Academy believes involving parents in the learning process helps foster a positive relationship between parent and child while allowing both generations to gain confidence and skills.

By learning alongside your child, we will expose you to new learning strategies your child is experiencing in their classroom. We believe that by working together, you and your child can learn math fundamentals and gain skills that will translate for years to come. 

Focusing On Relationships

Dropkick Math is a tutoring company that provides support in learning key math skills by focusing on relationships and engaging the parent/guardian. All of our programs are focused on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning) to help parents and children understand the basic fundamentals of math. 

We believe relationships are the primary key to learning success. Our certified Ontario teachers offer a fun and engaging way to learn for both parent and child to understand the building blocks of mathematics.  

Get started today by learning more about our programs.

Tips for Setting up a Home Math Learning Environment

Are you looking for the perfect math learning environment for your kiddo? While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, having an intentional plan and organized structure in place can vastly improve your child’s ability to succeed. Whether your child is attending virtual math tutoring classes or just wants a place to study at home, it is vital they have a dedicated space to work. Read on for some tried and tested tips on creating a learning space for your child in your home.  

Creating A Classroom At Home

Since the pandemic shook up the entire world and many classrooms turned virtual, many parents were suddenly faced with the challenge of using an area of their home as a makeshift classroom. Remote education certainly put home learning into a new perspective, and parents became quickly aware of just how important it is to have a designated study area for their children. However, creating a space where children can feel comfortable and have minimal distractions while studying can be difficult.  Most parents didn’t perceive study areas as important as they are today. Before the pandemic, most children would study at home to practice what they had learned during school. However, since both children and parents spent numerous hours doing homework or listening to lectures from their houses during the pandemic, it suddenly became more clear that having a designated study area is vital for successful education

The Age Of Your Child

The first thing to take into consideration when choosing the right study area for your child is their age. If they are at an age when they need constant supervision, you will want to select a space that allows you to keep an eye on them easily. If they are old enough to study independently, you can give them privacy in a quiet area of the house or in their bedroom. 

Meeting Criteria

When creating a space for your child to work in, it is important to ensure the area meets three key criteria. First, natural light is essential for successful learning and while very dark days may require artificial lighting, take measures to ensure adequate access to as much natural light as possible.  Secondly, the temperature is also a key factor in creating an inviting work environment—the room should be neither too hot nor too cold. Finally, low levels of noise are also necessary for optimum work production; background noise can be disruptive and if possible aim for silent workspaces. In addition to lighting and temperature, ensure your child has both a comfortable chair and desk at their workstation: far better conditions than trying to work while sitting on the bed or sofa!

Less Clutter

Clutter can have a substantial adverse effect on education and can be incredibly disruptive when it comes to studying at home. As clutter accumulates, it starts taking up physical space in the learning environment and becomes a distraction for children. To ensure efficient learning at home, creating an area free from clutter is vital, as this encourages the child to stay focused on their studies.  Keeping clutter away does not necessarily mean having a sterile desk and room, but rather organizing items around the workspace into tidy categories that maximize efficiency. This can create a more productive home study atmosphere and make it easier for the child to concentrate as they work through their daily assignments.

Keep Supplies Nearby

The easiness and organization of a child’s study space will determine how well they can independently access the materials they need to accomplish a task. Providing easy access to the appropriate supplies necessary for their studies, such as markers and paper, will help keep them motivated while allowing them to complete tasks without getting frustrated or discouraged.  Moreover, having these items easily accessible helps them maintain concentration during remote learning classes or tutoring so that any disruptions are kept to a minimum. Ultimately, parents need to ensure their child’s study space has an adequate supply of materials in order to promote effective learning experiences at home. Don’t forget supplies often go beyond just notebooks and pens. Always have a kit ready that includes things like markers, a calculator, ruler, and even a water bottle.

Think About Functionality

Creating the ideal home learning environment for a child is not easy if you don’t have the right things in place. Functionality should be at the forefront of your mind when selecting elements like school supplies and furniture, as they form an integral part of a child’s study space. The desk and chair should be chosen to provide comfort, support, and accessibility in equal measure; while paperwork and stationery should be organized together to make it easy for the child to find everything they need without getting distracted. Ultimately, successful home learning starts with creating the perfect environment that allows a child the opportunity to explore their studies most efficiently and comfortably. Learning new math operations and equations can be frustrating, so we want children to be in a place where they feel comfortable and where they can focus on their learning. At Dropkick Math Academy, all our programs are virtual, so children will work from home. Having a place where they can study without distractions is vital to their success.  To learn more about our programs visit our website today!

How Tutoring Can Help With Pandemic Recovery

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

The Impact Of The Pandemic

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

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

Supporting Children

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

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

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

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

EQAO Testing

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

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

Math Tutoring Programs

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

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

An Alternative To Traditional Math Tutoring

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

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

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

Getting Help

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

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

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

Are Boys Better At Math Than Girls

When it comes to math, there has long been a stereotype that boys are “better” or more adept at the subject than girls. This idea can be traced back to traditional gender roles, where women and men are expected to possess certain skill sets – with mathematics seen as falling within male educational strengths. But is this assumption true? 

Studies show that while female students may struggle in some areas of mathematics, they tend to excel in others – providing an interesting counterpoint to the notion that boys simply have an edge over girls when it comes to numbers. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how performance between genders stacks up – and whether stereotypes about math still hold any weight today. We will also discuss how math intervention programs may be advantageous for boys or girls. 

Girls Are Underrepresented

According to the most recent data compiled by the U.S. Department of Education, a trend of women outstripping men in college enrollment and degree attainment persists, with a single exception: mathematics. Women have gained ground in mathematics education and achieved success as mathematics professionals; however, mathematics is still largely a male-dominated field, both at the university level and professionally. 

Despite their progress in mathematics over the past several decades, women remain underrepresented in mathematics research and occupation positions compared to men, perhaps due to entrenched gender roles or unbalanced access to mathematics resources during childhood. It is essential that all genders are able to pursue mathematics with equal access and opportunity if we wish to achieve parity in mathematics fields.

Results In Different Countries

In 2012, international tests were given to fifteen-year-olds worldwide. They showed that boys achieved higher levels than girls in mathematics in thirty-eight countries. However, in the United States and Canada, the achievement of boys and girls was found to be equal. 

When the research team released further details, their report showed that when anxiety was factored into the analysis, the gap in achievement was only a difference in mathematics confidence levels. It was noted that girls became more anxious when taking individual math tests. This phenomenon is commonly known as math anxiety, and it makes a case for educators to take a closer look before passing decisions regarding test performance. 

Are Boys Better?

A recent groundbreaking study from the University of Chicago, the University of Rochester, and Carnegie Mellon, also set out to find the truth about a gender gap in mathematics. While investigating the early biology of math and gender, researchers were able to conclude that learning math is similar in boys and girls. In the brain, math concepts engage the same neural networks of the brain during the critical years of cognitive development, regardless of gender. 

If boys were better at learning math than girls, their brains would show a biological origin for this strength. This study shows without a doubt that neural activity did not change from boys to girls. 

Researchers used functional magnetic resonance imaging to assess brain activity in 3 – 10-year-old children to compare the neural processes involved in learning math. As both girls and boys interacted with math videos, both drew on the same areas of the brain known for their association with math ability. There was no higher aptitude found in boys for learning math or for processing numbers compared to their female counterparts. 

Girls In STEM

Even though these studies show that girls and boys learn math equally, according to the National Science Foundation, there is still gender inequality in the STEM fields. Although jobs in engineering, physical sciences, mathematics, and computer sciences have the smallest gender pay gaps and have some of the highest areas of job growth in the global economy, the lack of women in these fields could lead to future gender income inequality. 

When females are underrepresented in traditionally male-dominated careers like STEM, entrepreneurship, and politics, their perspective is lost from the conversation. Research has proven that having females in leadership roles yields innovative solutions, yet when females aren’t included, their ideas aren’t heard, and innovation suffers as a result. It’s necessary for females to have an equal seat at the table so that their unique contributions can shape future solutions. Without female voices, needs and desires are left unheard, hindering progress and taking away from potential creative solutions. This ultimately slows the pace of development, leaving females behind in terms of representation and opportunities.

Getting Girls Interested In Math

So, how do we get both girls and boys as equally excited about mathematics and STEM majors throughout their education?

Many people believe that it will take parents and teachers to address the math gender gap and debunk the myth that boys are better at learning math than girls. By taking action to help girls believe they can achieve in math, more will be willing and want to go into the math and science fields. 

When girls are reminded of boys’ dominance in learning math, they tend to perform lower on academic tests. This stereotype can act as a stressor to performance. This is where parents and teachers can step in and help with math anxiety that could be hindering girls from performing at their best during mathematics tests. 

Research shows that girls who have a growth vs. fixed mindset about learning math are likely to believe in their abilities more. So, working on a math mindset may help girls perform better on math tests. 

Now is the time to get girls into a better mindset so they can thrive in mathematics. If your child is struggling with math, you may find that a math intervention program can help. But, before you start searching for “math tutor near me,” learn more about Dropkick Math Academy. We are an alternative to math tutoring that could help your child overcome their math anxiety. 

Our programs are designed to help children who may be experiencing math anxiety and help boost their confidence through fun and engaging game-based learning. Learn more today and get your child on the road to learning!