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Math Tutoring

Choosing the Right Math Tutor for Your Child

Choosing-the-Right-Online-Math-Tutor

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

A Daunting Task

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

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

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

Availability

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

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

Making Learning Fun!

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

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

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

Getting The Help They Need

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

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

Staying On Budget

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

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

Selecting The Perfect Math Tutor

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

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

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

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Math Tutoring

How Tutoring Can Help With Pandemic Recovery

How Tutoring Can Help With Pandemic Recovery

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

The Impact Of The Pandemic

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

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

Supporting Children

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

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

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

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

EQAO Testing

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

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

Math Tutoring Programs

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

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

An Alternative To Traditional Math Tutoring

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

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

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

Getting Help

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

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

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

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Learn Math

How Dropkick Math Turns Stress Into Success

How Dropkick Math Turns Stress Into Success

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

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

A Stressful Experience

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

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

Learning Together

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

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

Overcoming Math Anxiety

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

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

Success!

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

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

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

What To Expect

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

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

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

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

Taking Charge

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

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

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Math Programs

Are Boys Better At Math Than Girls

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!

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Learn Math

Why Do We Need Math?

Why Do We Need Math

Math. We all had to learn it at some point, but why do we need it? While it may seem like a difficult and pointless subject for many students, it is actually necessary for everyday life. Without math, a lot of things would be very confusing! So when your child asks why they need to learn math (which is inevitable), you will want to know how to explain to them why it is so important. In this blog post, we will discuss why we need math and how to explain to your child that it will help them out in the long run!

Is Math Misrepresented?

Many children don’t like math because of the way it is misrepresented in school. As a math teacher myself, I try to make my classes as fun and enjoyable as possible while showing children why they need math. However, everyone has a different way of teaching, and some children may do well in some teachers’ classes and not in others. How math is presented can either get children excited about learning or deter them from wanting to learn.  

A book called What is Mathematics, Really? By Mathematician Reuban Hersh explored how math is taught in school. It turns out that millions of students experience a depleted version of math which has little resemblance to the mathematics that is practiced in the real world. This may be why so many children believe math is just a subject they must suffer through in school and why they question why they even need to learn mathematics. In our math tutoring at Dropkick Math Academy, we ensure that students are focused on why they need math, making it easier for them to understand and more eager to learn. 

Why Math Is Important

If your child is struggling, suffering from low confidence in math or questioning why they need to learn math, it is vital to help them understand how important math is in the real world. The following are the top reasons why math is important, and everyone needs to learn math to be successful in everyday life.

  1. Math Helps Us Make Sense of the World Around Us

Math is often seen as a dry and abstract subject, but its applications are all around us. In fact, math is essential for understanding the world around us. To take just one example, consider the field of physics. Physics is the study of the physical world and relies heavily on math. The equations that physicists use to describe the behaviour of matter and energy are all based on math. Without math, physicists would be unable to make any sense of the physical world. This is just one example of how math helps us make sense of the world around us

Think about it—everything in the world can be broken down into numbers. From the amount of money in our bank accounts to the dimensions of the rooms in our homes, numbers are a part of everything we do. Math helps us make sense of those numbers and understand how they relate to the world around us. So next time your child is struggling with a math problem, help remind them that they are just trying to make sense of the world around them. 

  1. Math Helps Us Make Decisions

Math can seem a little less daunting if we apply it to real life. So, if children are taught that math is needed to help them make decisions as they go through life, they may think of problem-solving differently. 

To help your child understand, tell them to pretend they are going to get their first car. But first, they need to decide whether to buy it or lease it. They will need to consider the cost of the car, the interest rate on the loan, the length of the loan, their trade-in value, and the monthly budget. With a basic understanding of math, they can plug all of this information into an equation and calculate which option is best for them. Of course, math can also help them with more everyday decisions, whether they should buy the item on sale or wait until later. Or maybe they will need to decide how to divide up a bill between themselves and their friends. In both cases, math could help them make the best decision by giving them all the information they need to weigh their options.

  1. Math Teaches Us How to Think Logically

Many people believe that math is nothing more than a set of boring rules and equations. However, math is actually all about thinking logically. At its heart, math is all about logically solving problems. This process of thinking things through step-by-step can be applied to any number of scenarios outside of math class, from cooking dinner to fixing a broken appliance. Whenever we encounter a problem, we can use our math skills to think through it logically and find a solution.

To do this, we need to be able to identify patterns, make deductions, and spot potential errors. In other words, we need to think like detectives. This process of logical reasoning can be applied to any area of life, from everyday decision making to solving complex problems at work. When a child learns how to think logically, they can develop powerful problem-solving skills that will serve them well in all areas of their lives.

  1. Math Helps Us Develop Critical Thinking Skills

In addition to teaching us how to think logically, math also helps us develop our critical thinking skills. This is done in several ways. First, math provides a structured way of thinking about problems and solutions. By learning to break down problems into smaller steps, we can more effectively identify the key issues and brainstorm possible solutions. Additionally, math encourages us to think logically and systematically about problems. We learn to look for patterns and relationships and to use deductive reasoning to arrive at conclusions. These skills are essential not only in math class but in everyday life as well. Whenever we encounter a problem, whether it’s something as simple as deciding which route to take to work or something more complex, we use critical thinking skills. So next time your child is struggling with a math problem, don’t worry. Just remember that they are actually developing an important life skill and help them brainstorm possible solutions. 

An Important Part Of Everyday Life

Children may not realize it yet, but math is actually an essential part of our everyday lives. It helps us make sense of the world around us, make decisions, think logically, and develop critical thinking skills—skills that are valuable in all aspects of life. So next time your child struggles with a math problem, it could be a great time to point out why we need to learn math. Let’s face it, no one wants to learn something if they don’t know the point behind it!

At Dropkick Math Academy, we use every opportunity in our math tutoring to help children understand why mathematics is important to learn. By also focusing on the foundational concepts (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning, and proportional reasoning), our engaging, innovative programs help students fully understand critical concepts that are the base fundamentals of mathematics. 

We also address deficiencies while correcting any underlying misconceptions about mathematics. All instructors are qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making them accessible for all learning needs.  

Learn more about our math help services by clicking here today!

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Why Collaboration Is Important In Learning

Why Collaboration Is Important In Learning

In order for children to learn and grow, it is important for them to engage in collaborative activities. Collaboration allows children to develop social skills, learn how to work with others, and think outside of the box. Students can share ideas, solve problems together, and build relationships with classmates through collaboration. 

A World Of Possibilities

When children connect with other people’s ideas, they are opened up to a world of possibilities for collaboration and creativity. When they can share their ideas, it gives children the opportunity to offer their own perspectives and viewpoints. This can help them to solve problems more effectively.

As a teacher, I often witness children working together towards a common goal and developing a sense of trust and camaraderie that can last a lifetime. When students collaborate effectively, they are able to accomplish more than they could on their own. By working together, students can achieve more than they ever thought possible.

For these reasons, it is easy to see why collaboration is an important part of the learning process. 

A Study In Collaboration

An interesting study by Uri Treisman, a mathematician at the University of Texas at Austin, helped to show how collaboration can be effective in the learning process. Uri began his study after noticing that 60 percent of African American students who took calculus at the University of Berkley, California, failed their classes. He began to look at more university data and found that no Chinese American students were failing calculus, so he asked the question: What is the difference between these two cultural groups that could be causing this discrepancy in learning?

It was found that the difference between the two groups was how they studied. African American students tended to work alone in their dormitory rooms, where they struggled with problems on their own. In contrast, Chinese American students worked on their assigned math problems in their dormitories and in dining halls, working collaboratively with other students. 

As part of the study, Uri and his team of researchers set up workshops where African American students could work on math problems together. Results showed that the improvement in academic achievement was significant. Within two years, the failure rate of African American students dropped to zero, and they even started outperforming their peers. 

The outcome of this research showed how students had to be “taught” how to collaborate with each other. This speaks volumes about how we may be missing out on teaching a valuable skill in our elementary and high schools. Uri and his research team are right to point out that success in college and University requires working with others and good communication. This is a valuable skill that is not only needed in education but beyond in society. 

Alone In Their Struggle

As we know, with math anxiety, children give up on mathematics because they find it difficult and think they are alone in their struggle. By encouraging children to work together on math problems, we may help them see that others may find some or all of the work difficult too. This critical lesson allows children to understand that learning is a process and that obstacles are common. 

Having children work together or with a parent/guardian can give them an opportunity to connect ideas. Collaborating with others and learning about their ideas can develop a higher level of understanding. When students see another way of learning, they get opportunities to make connections between valuable ideas throughout life. 

Collaboration in Dropkick Math

When a child can connect with someone else’s ideas, they can enhance their brain, perspective, and understanding. At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe collaboration is vital to learning. We encourage students to offer ideas in our live sessions and create a comfortable environment for them to work through problems with their peers. 

We also believe that including the parent/guardian in our math tutoring program is essential for a child’s success.  By being actively involved and setting high expectations for their child, parents can help guide them towards having high values of doing well in school. 

Involving The Parent/Guardian

Math can be a difficult subject for many students, and it can be easy for parents to fall into the mindset that they “just don’t get it.” However, by learning math alongside your child, you can become a role model for them and show them that math is something that everyone can understand with a little effort. Just like when they collaborate with their peers, children can gain a lot when working alongside a parent or guardian. Connecting ideas with your child gives them a chance to look at problems differently and work through gaps in learning using alternative methods. It may also help boost their confidence in mathematics when they work alongside a parent, and they may start understanding math concepts better. 

Collaborating with your child will not only help improve your child’s math skills, but it will also give you a chance to bond with them over a shared experience. Additionally, you may be surprised at how much you enjoy math once you give it a try! 

Learn more about our math help services today and how we can help your child. We focus on math for grades 4 to 9 and currently work with various school boards across Ontario to offer subsidized programs. Click to learn if your child qualifies as part of Ontario’s Learning Action Recovery Plan. 

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Math Tutoring

Grade 4: Is Your Child Where They Should Be?

Grade 4 Is Your Child Where They Should Be

As a parent, you want your child to succeed in school. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many students to miss crucial learning opportunities, especially in reading and mathematics. As a result, some may fall behind their peers this school year. With the academic rigours becoming more challenging each year, making sure your child is keeping up is essential. 

It can be difficult to know if your child is falling behind in school. Many children are good at hiding their struggles, and you may not find out until the report card comes home. There are, however, some signs that your child may be falling behind. If they suddenly seem disinterested in school or have difficulty with assignments, they may be struggling. Additionally, if they begin receiving lower grades or acting out in class, it could be a sign that they need more help. If you suspect your child is falling behind, don’t hesitate to reach out to their teacher or school counsellor. They can help you determine if there is a problem and put together a plan to get your child back on track.

Where Your Child Should Be

In grade four, children continue to build upon the reading, writing, and math skills they have developed in previous years. At this stage, students should be able to read independently for long periods of time and write clearly and fluidly. In terms of mathematics, fourth graders should be able to perform complex operations with large numbers and understand basic geometry concepts. 

The following are some specific skills that your child should be working on mastering by the end of fourth grade in Ontario: 

  • Be able to use more than one way to solve problems
  • Recall and demonstrate multiplication facts for 1 x 1 to 10 x 10
  • Use mental math strategies to multiply whole numbers by 10, 100 and 1000 and divide whole numbers by 10
  • Start applying math concepts to the real world
  • Compare numbers up to 10 000 using greater and less than symbols
  • Complete long division, with or without remainders
  • Represent and compare fractions and decimal tenths and put them in order on a number line
  • Start two-and three-digit multiplication and division with single digits

The First Step

Even if you have noticed some signs that your child may be falling behind, you may be unsure of how far of an education gap they may be experiencing. If you have noticed any signs, the first step is to reach out to your child’s teacher. They will be able to guide you and give you some insight into your child’s current level of understanding. You can then work with your child’s teacher to identify any gaps in learning and create a plan to address them. 

Good communication between parents and teachers is essential for ensuring that children thrive in school. Even if a child is doing well in math and seems to be having no trouble in school, it is still generally recommended that parents communicate with teachers regularly to build a support system for the child.

How To Supplement Education

If you have determined that your child may be missing some milestones for their grade, it is important to supplement their education at home. There are many ways you can do this, such as: 

– Providing additional resources, such as books, games, and apps that focus on academic skills 

– Encouraging daily routines that include dedicated time for academic work 

– Talking with your child regularly about their schoolwork and how they’re progressing 

– Encouraging your child to articulate what they don’t understand and ask clarifying questions

– Get tutoring support

Taking these steps can help your child make up for lost learning and prevent them from falling even farther behind. Math builds upon the concepts learned the previous year, so before your child reaches a new milestone, they must first accomplish the task currently at hand. Academic success is within reach – it just takes a little effort on your part!

Math Tutoring

One of the best ways to help your child if they are not reaching the milestones they should be in grade 4 is to get a math tutor. However, math tutoring companies come in all shapes and sizes and may not work for all children. 

Here at Dropkick Math Academy, we offer an alternative to math tutors. We understand that keeping math for grade 4 fun and exciting can be challenging, so we have created engaging games that will boost your child’s confidence and make them want to learn more! 

Our math help services are all taught by certified Ontario Teachers who are passionate about helping children overcome gaps in learning. During the pandemic, many children fell behind in math, but our programs use the four pillars of math to help target any misconceptions they may have.

We also differ from traditional tutoring services because we involve the parent in the learning process. We understand that math may be taught completely differently from when they were in school, and we want parents to learn along with their children. At the end of each class, we invite parents to have a discussion with the teacher so they also understand the math concepts we are teaching. 

Helping Your Child Stay On Track

As a parent, you play an important role in ensuring your child’s success in school. By keeping track of their progress and providing they are mastering fundamental skills, you can help them stay on track and set them up for success in the future. If you have any concerns about your child’s progress, talk to their teacher or contact us for more guidance.

Learn more about our programs today!

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Learn Math Math During Pandemic

How Absence Rates Over The Past Two Years Have Affected Students

How Absence Rates Over The Past Two Years Have Affected Students

COVID has had a significant impact on our schools and education. One of the most visible effects has been the increase in school absences. Recent data shows that school absence rates have spiked in recent years, which has clearly impacted student performance. Schools are now struggling to find ways to deal with the potential influx of absences if an increase in COVID is seen again this year. Some schools are considering online learning again, while others are looking at ways to increase classroom sizes. 

With so many children missing days of learning, something needs to be done to ensure they stay on track. The Ontario government has stepped in with their Learning Action Recovery Plan, subsidizing outside help, including math tutoring services. Whatever the solution, it is clear that COVID has brought the issue of school absences into sharp focus.

Last Year’s Absence Rates

While the new school year has just started, the absence rates from last year are troubling. More than 300 Ontario schools reported student and staff absences of more than 30 percent on average. The data from the last school year did include all absences, not just those that might be related to COVID-19, so it is difficult to gauge the impact of the pandemic. Other than COVID-related absences, weather or technical errors were among the other reasons for staff and children not being recorded as being present. However, no matter the reason, student absences have been on the rise and are causing problems.

The bulk of the news coverage around student absenteeism over the past school year centred around the challenges of reaching students remotely. Students were missing classes because they lacked a digital device at home, or a reliable internet connection, while for other students, the pandemic forced them into childcare responsibilities that made attending school a lower priority than usual. Teachers also reported that taking attendance in remote learning was more difficult. 

The “New Normal”

With schools being forced to close and virtual classrooms becoming the “norm” over the past couple of years, children have had to adapt to a new way of learning. They have also gotten used to missing lessons or days on end of schooling. 

Before COVID, it would be an extreme problem if a child was absent for so many days, but now with the threat of COVID, it is all par for the course. But what does this mean for children? How is their absence or their teacher’s absence affecting their learning?

Research shows that children’s education has been greatly affected by the pandemic. While it is too early to tell exactly what aspect has led to this missed learning, we can only assume that absence rates play a large role. If a student isn’t in a classroom (virtual or real), it is impossible for them to learn. 

Home Schooling

While some parents have been able to homeschool their children, others have not had the time or resources to do so. As a result, many children have missed out on critical instruction and interaction with their peers.

One of the most important aspects of getting an education is peer interaction. Children learn social skills and how to interact with others when they are in a classroom setting. They also benefit from the instruction of a teacher. When children are not in a classroom, they miss out on these important aspects of their education, and as a result, many children have faced a gap in learning during the pandemic. While some parents have done an admirable job of homeschooling their children, it is clear that for the majority, the best way for children to receive an education is in a classroom setting. 

Learning Growth

Studies are now beginning to show that students’ learning growth over the past couple of years has not progressed as it should, meaning some children have experienced the “COVID slide.” This slide shows that students are ending the school years with lower achievements compared to a typical year, with larger declines relative to historical math trends than reading. Unfortunately, experts warn this will only get worse. Due to the lack of proper education, they expect students’ growth rate in math to slow even more in the next few years. 

Due to this gap in learning, it is vital to get them the help they need now so they can get caught up quicker than expected. With Ontario’s Learning Action Recovery Plan, students are able to get the help they may need to catch up on any missed learning. This plan is designed to help students who have been struggling in school catch up and get back on track. It invests heavily in tutoring support and includes summer learning, a focus on reading, math and other foundational skills, as well as targeted initiatives intended to address unique barriers that some students may face. This will help 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 Ontario students with the resources they need to succeed.

Filling In Learning Gaps

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. As part of the Learning Action Recovery Plan, we can also offer our programs to select school boards across Ontario at a subsidized rate.

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

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Learn Math Math Programs Online Math Tutor

How Dropkick Math Makes Learning Fun!

How Dropkick Math Makes Learning Fun!

As a parent, you want what is best for your child. You want them to grow up to be happy and prosperous in whatever they choose to do. And you know that a big part of that success is getting a good education. But sometimes, getting your child to do their homework can be a real struggle. They might not be interested in the subject or find it too hard. That’s where Dropkick Math tutoring comes in!

Making Math Fun

As a parent and a teacher, I understand both sides of the struggle. We want the best for our children, but sometimes learning can be dry and unengaging. Let’s face it; we have all struggled with a subject in our life that would have been much better if it was made into something fun. 

When Chad and I were starting Dropkick Math Academy, we were thinking about how math can be so frustrating that you just want to “dropkick” it away and be done. That is how we came up with the concept of a math program that lets children learn mathematics in a fun and engaging way where they can feel like they took on math and won! This is why Dropkick Math focuses on making learning fun through engaging games that encourage children to take risks and earn rewards. 

What is Dropkick Math?

Dropkick Math Academy is an alternative to traditional tutoring. We stand out amongst our competitors for our unique approach to math education. We believe learning math should be fun and engaging, so 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.

How Dropkick Math Works

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. So whether you’re at home or on the go, your child can always be learning.

For each module, children will be assigned battles which contain 6 questions and must meet virtually with their teacher and other students in their battle training for one hour per week. This game-based instructional strategy allows students to level up and earn points toward a reward at the end of the program.

During your child’s journey, they will require tools and strategies to battle the villains they encounter. Each child will receive their math battle kit in the mail before classes begin. They will also have a virtual battle pack which teachers will add to after each battle training session.

At the end of each hour’s timeslot, parents will have the opportunity to meet with the teacher to discuss their child’s progress and to get feedback on how they can help them continue to learn. We believe this is an invaluable part of our programs and encourage parents to become involved in their child’s learning.

We are proud to have a team of passionate, certified Ontario teachers making math education fun for their students. Our programs offer small group virtual programming with a maximum of four students in each module, allowing children to learn in a comfortable and familiar setting while receiving the individualized attention they need to succeed. Our teachers take the time to interact with each student and make their classes exciting so children will want to get involved. 

Why Games?

We believe that games are the best way to learn. Games are fun and engaging, which keeps kids coming back for more. And because they’re competitive, kids are motivated to keep playing until they get it right. With Dropkick Math, learning is no longer a chore – it’s a game! 

As we enter a digital world filled with distractions, math curriculum needs to include solutions for students to be more engaged. Research has shown that brains can be changed entirely and be rewired in as little as eight weeks through participation in effective intervention programs that offer engaging learning experiences. Using games helps to ensure students learn how to be critical, confident and creative—abilities they’ll need for success in the work-a-day world of the future.

However, make no mistake, our games are not purely for entertainment. When a child works on game-based learning, they will just think that they are having fun with the game, but a lot goes into crafting the game as a learning tool. While we want children to have fun, the end goal of our game-based learning is to have children truly understand math operations. When we build our curriculum, we start with core standards and focus on the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, algebraic reasoning and proportional reasoning). 

Games For Everyone!

Dropkick Math Academy is the perfect solution if you’re looking for a way to get your child interested in math or if you just want to give them a leg up on their education. We offer fun and engaging programs that can help your child overcome their math anxiety or any gaps in learning they may have. With our wide variety of games, there’s something for everyone.

Our math help services are run by qualified Ontario Certified Teachers who can offer differentiated approaches, making it accessible for all learning needs. Our different approach to traditional math tutoring includes fun and engaging programs to help your child succeed.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today and let your child start playing their way to a better education!

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Learn Math Online Math Tutor

5 Tips for Overcoming Math Anxiety

girl-pencil

Math anxiety is a genuine phenomenon affecting many students, no matter their age. It’s a feeling of dread, fear, and apprehension that can overtake anyone when they’re faced with a math problem. For some children, math anxiety is so intense that it can cause them to completely freeze up, making it impossible even to attempt to solve the problem. It is often caused by a fear of failure, self-doubt, and negative past experiences with math. However, parents and children need to remember that everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives and that it’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

Many children can overcome their math anxiety by trying different approaches to learning, including taking a brain break, learning a positive mindset or other such modalities. At Dropkick Math, our math tutoring can also help children who may be experiencing math anxiety. All of our programs are run by certified Ontario teachers who have been trained in how to address math anxiety. 

Nervousness vs Anxiety

Some children may get nervous, but for others, it is not simply a matter of feeling nervous. Being nervous is a perfectly sensible reaction to something that is truly scary. In a 1972 Journal of Counseling Psychology article, educational psychologist Frank Richardson and counselling psychologist Richard Suinn defined “math anxiety” as:

“A feeling of tension and anxiety that interferes with the manipulation of numbers and the solving of mathematical problems in a wide variety of ordinary life and academic situations.”

Steps To Overcome Anxiety

If your child is struggling with math anxiety, don’t worry – there are steps they can take to overcome it and improve their performance in math class. Math anxiety can be managed and overcome with practice, patience, and perseverance. With the right support and mindset, anyone can learn to love math. The following are our top 5 tips on how to help your child overcome math anxiety. 

  1. One of the best things your child can do is experiment with different learning methods. Some students learn better by listening to lectures, while others prefer working through problems on their own using math manipulatives. There is no one right way to learn mathematics, so find the best method for your child and stick with it. With a little effort, they will be able to overcome math anxiety and succeed in math class!
  2. If you notice your child feeling overwhelmed while studying math, it’s okay for them to take a break. A brain break can help refresh their mind, making it easier for them to focus later on. Brain breaks can be active or passive, depending on the child’s needs. Active brain breaks focus on physical movement and may involve jumping or dancing around. Passive brain breaks are more about mindfulness or sensory and may include taking deep breaths or listening to calm music.  Taking breaks is essential for keeping their mind sharp and ready to tackle challenging math problems. 
  3. Explain to your child the difference between understanding and memorization. Memorization can be beneficial in certain circumstances, but it may produce a procedurally competent student who can’t think their way out of a box. The sooner you can encourage your child to understand math operations instead of memorization, the sooner they will develop number sense and mental math skills, which will help boost their confidence in mathematics. 
  4. Never underestimate the impact that a few encouraging words can have on your child. Children experiencing math anxiety can feel hopeless and lost, but knowing that a caring adult is there and cheering them on could help boost their confidence. A study published in the Journal of Emerging Investigators explored the effects of positive and negative reinforcement and their impact on students’ mathematical performance in 6th grade. All participants were required to do mental math to calculate fraction problems after receiving a negative, positive, or neutral form of reinforcement. They wore a heart monitor to track their anxiety, and it was found that students who received positive reinforcement had significantly lower heart rates when calculating fractions. So, next time your child is struggling, try motivating them through positive, encouraging words or even rewards to help improve their learning and academic success. 
  5. Make math fun! At Dropkick Math, we believe that all children can become interested in math and overcome math anxiety if it is presented in a fun and engaging way. All of our programs offer game-based learning to help those who may be struggling. Through encouragement and rewards, children will begin to excel at completing complex math questions and beat their fear of math. 

Physical Symptoms Of Math Anxiety

Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as a racing heart or sweating. With such physical reactions, many children who have math anxiety tend to avoid situations in which they have to do math. However, by following these simple tips, you can help your child overcome math anxiety and start to enjoy learning mathematics. 

Along with interventions, Dropkick Math offers programs that can help a child improve their math skills. When a child becomes more confident in mathematics, their level of math anxiety decreases. With our fun and engaging programs, children will learn to become more at ease with math problems.

Learn more about our math help services today!

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