How to Help Your Child With Math

When we learned math, we were taught the steps to solve different types of problems, but not necessarily why we needed to take those steps. Today’s math instruction is more conceptual. Instead of the memorization we did in math class, your child’s math lessons focus on giving students strategies, skills, and knowledge to tackle problems in different ways.

Instead of covering everything there is to know about one topic (like fractions) before moving onto the next one, topics are introduced briefly and then returned to repeatedly as children advance in school. This allows students to build their understanding and retain their knowledge of different math topics over time.

Younger students are now being asked to solve complex word problems, even while their reading and writing skills are still developing. And students of all ages have to explain their problem-solving strategies in writing. Bringing reading and writing into math lessons is a great way to support literacy development, but it can also add layers of challenges for students who struggle with those areas.

These guides from the National Parent-Teacher Association can help you understand what math concepts your child will be working on this year. Check in with your child’s teacher if you want more details about what they’ll be learning.

You don’t have to drill your child in math facts at home. Play card games to reinforce math concepts, and have your child act as the scorekeeper. There’s math in hobbies like sports, music, and cooking, too—so next time you’re watching a game or whipping up a recipe together, take the opportunity to sneak in some math. (Fun tip: Doubling a recipe—or halving it, if you don’t want extras—is a simple way to challenge your math learner in the kitchen.) You can also take advantage of screen time for math practice: these math apps and computer games develop math concepts while keeping it fun.

Check in to find out what types of activities would be most helpful to reinforce what they’re doing in the classroom. Many schools now use computer programs to support math instruction that you can access from home, too. And if you think your child is struggling, ask their teacher if they can receive extra support in school.