How to help kids with math

FALLBROOK – Many parents recall struggling with math at one point or another in their academic careers. According to PBS, little is known about the neurobiological or environmental causes of math disabilities. Many experts attribute them to various deficits in a handful of skill types, including difficulties connecting the relationship between numbers and the quantities they represent and an incomplete understanding of the language of math.

Determining what's behind a student's struggles with math may require a collective effort on the part of parents and educators. Parents also may need to make a concerted effort to help their children with math at home, and they can approach that in various ways.

* Learn the ways modern teachers teach math. It may not take long before parents recognize that math is now taught differently than it likely was when they were still students. Beginning in 2010, the Common Core State Standards Initiative attempted to teach math in a new way. Parents of students who are struggling with math can contact their children's teachers to learn the methods they're using in the classroom. Ask for pointers on presenting the material at home and do your best to grasp the new approach.

* Utilize kids' interests to relay mathematical concepts. Kids may find material more relatable and easier to understand if parents incorporate their interests into lessons. For example, parents can use sports to reinforce concepts kids are being taught in the classroom. If a child's favorite football team is winning by 21 points, parents can ask children to determine how many touchdowns the opponent will need to score to tie the game. Young readers can be given books that help children build fundamental math skills like counting, addition and subtraction. Incorporating kids' hobbies into home math lessons is a great way to build their enthusiasm for math.

* Speak with teachers. Ask teachers for their advice on relating concepts at home. Teachers may be limited in regard to how they can teach math in the classroom, but they might be able to offer some tips to make materials more relatable at home.

* Work with a tutor. Parents who are struggling to grasp the new ways math is taught can easily become frustrated, and that frustration could rub off on kids. Before things reach that point, parents can reach out to tutors. Some schools provide tutoring programs, while others may recommend local tutors. Fellow parents also can be great resources and may be able to recommend tutors who have produced successful results for their children in the past.

Struggles with math are not uncommon. Parents can try various strategies to help their kids grasp mathematical concepts more fully.