Some parents find it difficult to help their children with Maths at home, especially as the way that we teach Maths in school nowadays may be quite different to the way we learned as children.
So here are a few thoughts and tips:
Make maths as much fun as possible – games, puzzles and jigsaws are a great way to start. It's also important to show how we use maths skills in our everyday lives and to involve your child in this.
Identifying problems and solving them can also help your child develop maths skills. If you see him or her puzzling over something, talk about the problem and try to work out the solution together. Don't shy away from maths if you didn't like it at school. Try to find new ways to enjoy the subject with your child.
Tips for helping your child to enjoy maths:
- Point out the different shapes to be found around your home.
- Take your child shopping and talk about the quantities of anything you buy.
- Let your child handle money and work out how much things cost.
- Look together for numbers on street signs and car registration plates.
Karen Collett (Headteacher, St Mary's CE School)
