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Reversing Summer Slide

Reversing Summer Slide

Imagine your child conquering math problems with the confidence of an explorer discovering new lands, their eyes bright with curiosity and determination. Now, imagine the summer sun shining, the school’s out, and that spark of academic achievement slowly dims as math problems are replaced with ice cream parlours and sandcastles. That’s the summer slide, an all-too-familiar decline in educational progress over the vacation period. 

Summer slide is like a gremlin in the education world; it sneakily steals away hard-earned academic gains as kids bask in the freedom of summer vacation. But don’t fear! There are many ways to outsmart this gremlin without sacrificing a fun-filled summer.

At Dropkick Math Academy, we offer math help services that are aimed at diminishing summer slide. 

With our approach, parents can turn the tables, making summer an opportunity to solidify and even enhance their children’s math skills. Here’s how to empower your little geniuses during those sun-kissed days and starlit nights.

Why is the Summer Slide a problem and how it affects your child?

Picture this: It’s the first day back to school after a long, sunny summer break. Armed with a fresh set of school supplies, your child steps into the math classroom, ready to conquer. But your child’s face falls as the teacher begins to review last year’s curriculum. Numbers and concepts that were once familiar now seem distant and confusing. This, my friend, is the infamous ‘summer slide’ in action. 

So, what exactly is the summer slide? In simple terms, it’s the loss of academic skills and knowledge over the course of summer vacation. And the subject that takes the biggest hit? You guessed it – math. Researchers have found that students can lose up to two months of math skills during summer. Just imagine the impact of this loss year after year! 

But it’s not just about forgetting the multiplication table or the formula to calculate the area of a circle. The summer slide can lead to a confidence slide too. As the child struggles to remember and catch up, their confidence in their math abilities may take a hit. And we all know how crucial confidence is when it comes to learning and succeeding in any field. 

Furthermore, this learning loss can widen the achievement gap between students. Those who have access to continuous learning opportunities during summer maintain or even improve their skills, while others fall behind. This gap can be hard to bridge when the school year starts again. 

Now that we understand the problem, the question is – how can we work together to reverse this summer slide? The good news is there are plenty of fun, engaging ways to keep math skills sharp over the summer. Stay tuned for some awesome ideas and tips!

What are the signs that your child is experiencing the Summer Slide?

If your child forgets things they previously mastered or if they’re struggling with problems they could once handle with ease, this might be your first clue. Remember, it’s normal for kids to need some review, but if you’re seeing a significant decrease in their math skills, you’re likely dealing with the summer slide. 

Another sign is a decline in the child’s confidence or enjoyment in math. If they’re suddenly dreading math problems or avoiding them entirely, this could be because their skills have slipped and they’re feeling unsure. 

Does Your Child’s Behavior Seem Different? 

Changes in your child’s attitude towards math can be another giveaway. If your child was once enthusiastic about solving math problems and now seems uninterested, unengaged, or frustrated, the summer slide might be the culprit. 

Always remember, you know your child best. If something feels off, it’s worth looking into. So, keep your detective hat on and let’s tackle this summer slide together!

How to prevent the Summer Slide in Math this summer

First off, let’s ditch the notion that math is a chore. How about we think of it as a puzzle, an adventure, or better yet, a treasure hunt? The key to preventing summer slide in math is to make it an exciting part of your child’s day. 

You can also make use of online resources. Many educational platforms offer fun and interactive math games. These games reinforce what children learn during the school year and help keep their skills sharp over the summer. 

Remember that practice makes perfect. Encourage your child to spend 15-30 minutes working on math problems each day. This can be through workbooks, online programs, or simply creating your own problems for them to solve. The aim is not to burden them with homework, but to keep their problem-solving skills active. 

You may also want to consider summer math camps or online math tutor for your child. At Dropkick Math Academy, we offer a structured environment where learning and fun go hand in hand. Plus, your child will get to meet other math enthusiasts! 

Incorporating Math Into Everyday Activities And Turning It Into A Fun Experience

Most parents would agree that convincing your child to practice math skills over summer vacation can be as tough as solving a complex algebra equation. But what if I told you that it could be as simple as baking a batch of cookies or planning a family outing? The secret to reversing the summer slide lies in integrating math into everyday activities and making it a fun-filled learning journey. 

Let’s ‘bake’ the summer slide away! 

Transform your kitchen into a magical math lab. Baking is all about measurements and timing. Engage your child in baking their favourite cookies. Ask them to measure the ingredients, time the baking process, and even divide the cookies for sharing. They’ll practice fractions, measurements, and time calculations without realizing it. 

Turn shopping into a problem-solving session 

Next time you’re at the supermarket, hand over the shopping list to your child. Let them calculate the total cost, figure out the best deals, and even count the change. This exercise sharpens their addition and subtraction skills and imparts critical life skills. 

Take learning outdoors 

Planning a family picnic or a mini-vacation? Involve your child in the planning process. Let them calculate the distance, time, and cost involved. They can also help plan the meals, practice budgeting, and even map reading. This real-world exposure to math concepts will help them appreciate the practical importance of math. 

Remember, the goal is to keep it fun and stress-free. The idea is not to bombard them with math problems but subtly integrate math into their daily lives. This way, they’ll stay math-ready, all set to beat the summer slide!

The Importance of Keeping Children Engaged Year Round

At Dropkick Math Academy, we understand the importance of keeping children engaged in education year-round. That’s why we take the potential effects of summer slide so seriously.

We want to do everything we can to prevent summer slide from setting in, which is why we offer summer programs designed to keep students learning and growing even when school is out. We take learning math operations and turn it around to be fun and engaging. We offer a variety of programs to fit your child, no matter their level of understanding. 

Our math help services are offered throughout the summer months and are designed to help your child stay on track. Learn more today, and get started with our FREE assessment.

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The 3 Math Myths

The 3 Math Myths

As an elementary school teacher, one of the most common challenges I face in the classroom is helping students overcome their fear of mathematics. It is disheartening to see how the beliefs and misconceptions about math can impact a child’s confidence and performance in school. One of the reasons why this happens is because they have been exposed to math myths that have been circulating for years. 

These myths discourage them from pursuing the subject, and create a mindset that is difficult to overcome. In our tutoring programs at Dropkick Math Academy, we work with students to boost their confidence and help them overcome the beliefs they may hold in math. 

In today’s discussion, we will delve into the three most common math myths and expose the truth behind them.  

The 3 Top Math Myths

If you are a concerned parent of a child who is struggling with mathematics, this is a must-read. Join me on this journey to break the myths and unlock your child’s true math potential.

Myth #1 – Believing you are not good at math

This is the biggest myth that people believe. How many times have you heard someone say, “I am just not good at math?” The myth has blossomed into the idea that you are either naturally good or bad at math, but that simply isn’t true. Everyone can be good at math with the right learning experience.

Math can be a daunting subject for a child, especially if they’ve had previous negative experiences with it. However, what if their struggles with math were due to a past learning environment that didn’t work for the way they learn? What if they’re actually good at math, and all they need is a supportive environment that adapts to their needs and learning pace? Enter Dropkick Math Academy. 

Our small classes are taught by passionate faculty who develop a personalized educational experience tailored to each student’s learning style. We believe that effective teaching requires a malleable approach that adapts to the individual needs of each student. Our supportive tutors provide one-on-one attention to strengthen basic skills in a way that makes the most sense to our students. Dropkick Math Academy will give your child the confidence and skills to excel in math and beyond.

Myth #2 – Only boys are good at math

The notion that math is exclusively a man’s world is a widespread notion in our society, but it is far from reality. The truth is that math is for everyone, regardless of gender. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we believe in and actively promote gender equality in education, especially in STEM fields like mathematics. We are proud to have a success rate that disproves the notion that girls do not belong in math. Our female students are just as capable, skillful, and passionate as their male counterparts. We firmly believe that anyone talented, passionate about math and willing to put in the effort will undoubtedly excel in this subject. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, we treat all our students equally and aim to instill confidence and proficiency in math, regardless of their gender.

Myth #3 – Math is not useful in everyday life

It’s a common myth that math is only useful in specific careers like accounting or engineering. In reality, math is present in almost all aspects of everyday life. From the motion of cars to the flow of current in our electronic devices, mathematical equations help describe and predict these phenomena. 

While children may not understand these examples, it is easy to show them how they use math in their daily lives. Next time they want some candy or a piece of pizza, show them how to divide up the pieces among different people. This can help them understand number sense and fractions. 

There are many other ways to show children how math is used in daily life. From baking to grocery shopping, you can help open your child’s eyes to the practical uses of mathematics daily. Check out our blog, which is all about finding math in everyday life!

When discussing math with a child, it is also important to mention that it is also not limited to certain fields or careers. With proper training and skills in math, they can easily transfer to various industries such as data science, business administration, and even fashion design! So, next time your child asks why they need to learn math, remind them of the broad and practical applications of math in their day-to-day life.

A Boost In Confidence And Willingness To Learn

As I have explained, these math myths are not true. The earlier these math myths are discussed with a child, the better. When a child understands that they are just as good at math as anyone else and that they have the potential to excel in the subject, they will begin to experience a boost in confidence and a willingness to learn. 

At Dropkick Math Academy, our math learning techniques help children become engaged in their education. All of our programs involve game-based learning and offer a fun and exciting way to learn math operations. 

All of our math tutoring programs are taught by certified Ontario teachers who understand math anxiety and know how to approach students who may believe any of these math myths. We have excellent success with students who enter our program with math anxiety and feeling of dread when faced with math operations. With a little compassion and understanding, we can help boost their confidence and get them into a better mindset where they will want to learn and participate in math once again!

Check out our list of programs and get your child started with our FREE Early Indicators Assessment today!

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Learn Math

Where To Find Percentages In Everyday Life

Where To Find Percentages In Everyday Life

From fractions to decimals, math concepts can be daunting for children at any age. However, as parents, you can help your child feel more confident in their math skills by introducing them to percentages and showing them that they’ll use it in all aspects of their lives – not only in math class. 

By exploring the world around them and taking a closer look at daily situations, children can start to see how percentages are an essential part of almost everything they do – from buying groceries with discounts and understanding interest rates on savings accounts, percentage literacy is essential for becoming financially literate.

Today, we’ll go into why learning about percentages is so important for your child’s development  – and explore some easy ways that kids can learn about percentiles right from everyday life!

Where To Find Examples

Shopping
We are bombarded with advertisements that boast discounts and sales whenever we shop. However, it can be difficult for children to understand the actual value of these discounts. This is where percentages come in handy. 

For example, if a toy is on sale for 20% off its original price of $10, children can use percentage calculations to determine the new price. 20% of $10 equals $2, so the new price would be $8. This skill can help children understand the true value of a discount and make informed purchasing decisions.

Baking
Getting children involved in baking is another great way to help teach them percentages. They will be more likely to want to participate since there is a delicious reward at the end! Whether doubling a recipe or converting between metric and imperial measurements, percentages can help make the process smoother when following a recipe. Have your child help you read the recipe while following along to make sure they understand the measurements. 

For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of flour, you could ask them to double the recipe. So, they would need to use 200% of the original amount. This means they would need to use 2 cups of flour. Understanding percentages can also help children convert units of measurement, such as converting 50 grams to ounces or 1 litre to millilitres.

Sports
Sports are full of percentage-based statistics that can be used to track progress and compare performance. Children who play sports or follow professional teams can quickly see that percentages are used when talking about statistics. 

For example, if a basketball player makes 5 out of 10 free throws, they have a shooting percentage of 50%. Similarly, a baseball player with a batting average of .300 has a success rate of 30%. 

These statistics can help children understand the importance of consistency and help them set goals for improvement in their own sport. Once they know how important percentages are in sports, they will quickly want to learn more about them!

Finance
The age of the child may determine how far into finance you can get, but it is never too early to start learning about money! Understanding percentages is essential for financial literacy. From calculating interest rates to understanding credit card debt, percentages play a crucial role in managing money. 

For example, if a credit card has an interest rate of 18%, children can use percentage calculations to determine how much interest they would owe on a $100 purchase over the course of a year. 18% of $100 equals $18, so they would owe $118 in total. This skill can help children make informed financial decisions and avoid debt as they become adults. 

Probability
Mathematics can be a daunting subject for many young students, but the topic of probability offers an exciting opportunity to explore the world of numbers and statistics. Understanding probability not only builds a foundation for more complex math concepts but also has practical applications in everyday life, such as predicting the likelihood of certain outcomes. 

For example, if a coin is flipped, there is a 50% chance that it will land on heads and a 50% chance that it will land on tails. Similarly, if a die is rolled, there is a 16.67% chance that it will land on any given number.

Many children enjoy learning about probability because it involves games, challenges, and real-life scenarios that spark their curiosity. By incorporating probability into math lessons, educators and parents can create a fun and engaging learning experience that helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Providing Real-Life Examples

According to recent research, providing real-life examples can make all the difference when it comes to learning math. Rather than simply memorizing equations and math concepts, children can better grasp the practical applications of math when they see it at work in the world around them. Whether it’s measurements in a recipe, calculations for taxes, or geometrical shapes in architecture, these everyday scenarios offer a tangible context for math that students can readily connect with. By bringing math to life in this way, educators and parents can help students retain knowledge more effectively and develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of the subject itself.

At Dropkick Math Academy, our approach to teaching mathematics is to make it both enjoyable and relatable for children. We believe that learning math should not be a daunting task but rather an exciting adventure. Through the use of real-life examples, we help our learners understand and appreciate the importance of math in their everyday lives. 

Our game-based learning platform is designed to help children develop math literacy and increase self-confidence in their ability to tackle math problems. At Dropkick Math Academy, we are passionate about providing a positive and engaging experience for every child to learn math.

Learn more about our math learning techniques and how we stand out from other math tutoring companies today! 

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Unlocking The Power of Mental Math

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. 

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

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! 

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Number Sense

Why Is Number Sense Important In Early Childhood Education

Why Is Number Sense Important In Early Childhood Education

The construct of number sense refers to a child’s fluidity and flexibility with numbers. It helps children understand what numbers mean, improves their mental mathematics performance, and gives them the tools to look at math in the outside world and make comparisons. In short, number sense is essential for developing a foundation in mathematics that will last a lifetime. 

Why Number Sense Is So Important

Number sense is critical for mathematical success for several reasons. First, it is difficult for students to understand what numbers mean without number sense. They may be able to recite numerals and count objects, but they cannot fully grasp the magnitude or quantity of those numbers. Second, students who lack number sense often have difficulty with mental mathematics. This includes recalling addition and subtraction facts, estimating answers to problems, and solving word problems. Finally, students need number sense in order to make connections between mathematics and the world around them. For example, they need to be able to use mathematics to measure objects, compare quantities, and understand Venn diagrams. 

Problem Solving Skills

One of the most important reasons for understanding number sense is for children to acquire problem-solving skills. When children can work flexibly with numbers, they can solve problems both inside and outside of the classroom. For example, if your child knows that 10 + 4 = 14, they will be able to quickly solve the problem 10 + 7 = __ by adding 3 to the known sum of 10 + 4. This type of flexible thinking is an important problem-solving skill that will serve your child well both now and in the future. 

What Can You Do To Help? 

You can do many things as a parent to help your child develop strong number sense skills. One of the best things you can do is give your child frequent opportunities to practice counting and performing simple addition and subtraction problems. You can incorporate math into everyday activities such as cooking, baking, shopping, and even laundry! 

You can also support your child’s understanding of numbers by frequently talking about numbers throughout the day. For example, point out numbers when you see them on clocks, street signs, buildings, or bills. You can also ask your child questions such as “How many socks did you put in your laundry basket?” or “If there are 5 cookies left and we each want 2 cookies, how many cookies will be left?” Asking questions like these regularly will help your child develop a deeper understanding of numbers and how they are used in everyday life. 

You can help track your child’s number sense progress by checking for the following:

  1. An awareness of the relationship between number and quantity
  2. An understanding of number symbols, vocabulary, and meaning
  3. The ability to engage in systematic counting
  4. An understanding of different representations of number
  5. Competence with simple mathematical operations
  6. An awareness of number patterns, including recognizing missing numbers

What Poor Number Sense Looks Like

As an elementary school teacher, I often had parents proudly tell me their child could count to 50. They were right – the child could recite the number names from one to 50. Impressive? Yes! But meaningful? No. 

The ability for a child to recite numbers in order is only one level of oral counting. It doesn’t necessarily mean they understand number sense. Unless a child has learned the basic building blocks early on, they will struggle to understand math concepts later on, such as fractions and decimals. 

Children with poor number sense tend to rely on methods they feel secure with and will focus on procedure. They often apply immature strategies to calculations and fail to spot links and connections that could help them get to the answer more quickly and easily. 

Those with poor number sense may also prefer to use pen and paper rather than working things out in their heads. They may be reluctant to estimate an answer before working it out and may accept whatever answer they get without questioning whether it is reasonable. Ironically children with poor number sense often do a more challenging version of math that relies upon remembering and applying procedures, with little understanding of underlying math concepts. 

Setting Up For Success!

Number sense is a critical foundation skill for success in mathematics and problem-solving. As a parent, there are many things that you can do to support your child in developing strong number sense skills, such as providing opportunities for practice and talking about numbers regularly throughout the day. By taking some time to focus on developing strong number sense skills with your child, you will be setting them up for success both inside and outside the classroom!

At Dropkick Math Academy, we include number sense as one of the four pillars of math that our curriculum is based around. As children improve their abilities with the four math pillars, they will strengthen their sense of place value and proportional reasoning skills. With our support in learning the building blocks of mathematics, your child will begin to thrive.  

If you have been searching for “math tutor near me,” look no further. Our fun, educational learning style will help boost your child’s confidence in math and set them up for mathematical success for years to come!

Learn more about our programs today and how we can help your child with number sense.

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How To Incorporate Summer Learning Into Your Vacation!

How To Incorporate Summer Learning Into Your Vacation!

As the second half of the summer break begins, it may be tempting just to relax and let your kids veg out. However, recent research shows this may not be in their best interests. Studies have found that students who don’t keep learning over the summer can lose up to two months of academic progress! Many students are already behind because of the gap in learning from the pandemic, so they may find themselves exceptionally far behind when they start their new year in September. This is why summer learning is vital to keep children on track.
Of course, a mathematics tutor such as Dropkick Math is always a great option to keep your child on track this summer. However, we understand that it isn’t always possible due to financial or time constraints. The good news is that there are ways to keep your child on track this summer by incorporating it into your annual vacation and letting them help with the planning, budgeting, and keeping everyone on time!

Lost Education

Many schools were closed during the pandemic, and many children fell behind in their studies. This was primarily because they could not attend school as usual and could not get the same level of education as they would have if schools had remained open. Children who were normally high achievers may have started to struggle in school, and this could have a lasting impact on their academic futures. Additionally, many children who were not normally academically inclined may have started to struggle in school during the pandemic, as they were unable to keep up with the material that was being covered in class. This could also have a lasting impact on their academic futures. Because of this loss of learning throughout the past couple of years, summer learning is more important than ever to help children catch up in their studies.

Planning Your Vacation

 

How To Incorporate Summer Learning Into Your Vacation!

We all know that it is vital for children to practice their math skills through the summer, but it can be easier said than done, especially if you have a vacation booked. But what if I told you that you could not only enjoy your vacation but also make it a beneficial learning experience for your child?

The educational experience can even start in the planning phase of your trip. Including your child in the planning process may boost their confidence and offer them some excellent learning opportunities. When planning, the first thing you will need to decide is who’s coming, how you will get there and even what you will do when you get there. But even before starting all that, you will need to figure out where you are going! So, you may wonder what kind of math you need to plan all of this. ALL KINDS!

Start by having your child create a vote and tally them to decide where all family members want to visit. Depending on your child’s age and math abilities, they can also calculate the probability of your destination’s weather and even the budget to determine if it is realistic or affordable. Teach them that a totally awesome vacation may sound like a good idea, but if 100% of your budget goes to just flying there, it might not be the best choice.

The Departure

How To Incorporate Summer Learning Into Your Vacation!Once you have worked through the planning phase with your child, the departure is where things can get a little hectic. But remember that you can still make this about math development and incorporate time management and probability. Have your child figure out what time they will need to wake up and when to leave for the airport. Time management skills will have to kick into gear as you ask them to figure some time to stop for a much-needed coffee (for mom and dad) and make it through airport security.

If you are going on a road trip, provide your child with a map and have them record how long it took to drive to your first rest stop. Next, have them figure out how long it will take to get to the final destination.

So, where does probability come into play? Well, chances are that someone in the family will have left something behind, like a phone charger! This can be a probability lesson, and a study in money as the child can be tasked to look online for a replacement on sale!

Vacay Time!

When you have finally reached your destination, the math can continue! This is where real-time budgeting becomes critical. It can be a great learning experience for your child when they see how money is budgeted. You can explain how they will get to do some fun activities while on vacation rather than blowing the whole budget on airport snacks.
There will be various daily activities throughout your vacation that allow for teachable math moments. While you want to relax and enjoy your trip, adding these math moments will help your child become more confident with math and keep them occupied, giving the adults more time to relax!

Math Playground

Adding your child into the planning process and allowing them to be part of the decision-making through the vacation is a great way to keep them learning through the summer months. Many students have fallen behind due to school closings over the past two years, and the summer is a great time to give them back some confidence in their math skills.
At Dropkick Math, we think every situation can be an excellent experience for a child, so by simply including them in everyday tasks, they can learn. It is hard to get a child to sit down and study during the summer months, so having them do real-time planning and calculating creates a type of “math playground” making it not only enjoyable for them but will also help them prepare for the school year approaching.
If your child is struggling with math, or needs a confidence boost in their math understanding, we can help! Our programs offer fun and engaging ways to help children understand the four pillars of math (number sense, operational sense, proportional reasoning, and algebraic reasoning). Learn more about our math help services today!

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Why Are Fractions So Hard?

Why Are Fractions So Hard?

Why Are Fractions So Hard?

Why Are Fractions So Hard?

When children start to have difficulty in math, it often begins when they are introduced to fractions. Before fractions, they may have only known counting numbers and the relationship between them and the set of objects they represent.

Once fractions are introduced, students may feel overwhelmed and unable to visualize what a fraction represents. This may lead to math anxiety and cause students to retreat and not want to continue learning.

Getting the help they need with fractions is vital for helping them stay on track with their peers. But, to understand how to help your child, you must understand why they struggle with fractions.  

Rushed Through Basics

Students start learning about fractions and making sense of them visually in Grade 3, but don’t start using fractions with operations until Grade 5 or higher. They are often rushed through the basics of fractions because at this stage in education, it is believed that these concepts should be “easy to grasp.”

Students start to work with concrete shapes to better understand adding and subtracting whole numbers from the start of school until Grade 2 and even Grade 3. So, they have years to let the brain develop an understanding and connection of the visual with the abstract symbols. However, students are expected to develop a similar understanding and ability to work with fractions within a few years. 

Not Taught in High School

Fractions as a topic are not taught in high school, so they are expected to have an adequate understanding of them by the time they get into Grade 9. This makes fractions one of the most important aspects for students to understand as they move through the junior and intermediate grades (Grade 4 – 8). They are also often used as an indicator of future mathematical ability.

Understanding Fractions

The problem with understanding fractions often comes once they start to learn about like and unlike denominators. Students begin to learn fractions with standard fraction addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems with like denominators (e.g., 3/5+4/5), but problems may start once unlike denominators (e.g., 3/5+2/3) arise. Research shows that 6th and 8th graders only tend to answer about 50% of items correctly when given unlike denominator questions.

This missing knowledge is especially unfortunate because fractions are foundational to many more advanced areas of mathematics and science. Fifth graders’ fraction knowledge predicts high school students’ algebra learning and overall math achievement, even after controlling for whole number knowledge, the students’ IQ, and their families’ education and income.

Often, the problem with fractions starts because students are not given the time to develop a sound understanding of what a fraction is. If they don’t fully understand what ¾ represents, they can’t be expected to work with it and learn how it relates to other numerical values.  

 Students need to visually see what a fraction represents to fully understand fractions. By looking at a representation of what ¾ looks like, they will begin to realize that ¾ is itself a symbol to represent the fraction. Developing brains need to see what it means in a concrete state before thinking of it using the ¾ symbol.

Once students get a solid understanding of what a fraction is, then they can start to manipulate it in their heads. Students must be able to use mental strategies that allow them to make sense of how they fit together and how to work with them in easy contexts first (eg., ¼ + 2/4 is ¾ OR 3  ¼ parts put together) to cement understanding before they can move to abstract ideas.

Develop a Thorough Understanding

 Help your child develop a concrete understanding of fractions with Dropkick Math. Our courses incorporate fractions to ensure that students understand how to compare, add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. Through visuals, your child will fully understand what fractions are and how they relate to each other.

Don’t let your child fall behind with their understanding of fractions. Our courses are designed to help you and your child better understand mathematics and pave the way for their achievements in high school. Get started today with our Free Early Indicators Quiz.

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