The end-of-year examinations are over – and many students have received their grades. Congratulations to those who have done well, but there may be a handful who need some extra encouragement when it comes to studying a subject like Mathematics.
Students either love Math or they hate it. There is no in-between. Why is there so much disparity in liking a subject only in the case of Maths? How to turn the tables for those who feel anxiety or fear for maths? Want some advice? This blog is for you!
If your children seem like they have an irrational fear or hatred towards the subject, or if they seem to struggle with it, your children might be suffering from Math Anxiety. Maths is one subject that seems to be accorded the ‘most feared’ status compared to other subjects in the minds of parents and teachers. The fact that it is the most popular tuition subject underlines this. So, when your children seem like they might be struggling from it, it can be a cause of concern for parents.
What is Math Anxiety?
It is defined as feelings of fear, doubt, nervousness, and other psychological reactivity when dealing with the subject. It is a real problem that is more common than you think.
Math anxiety can be present in an individual in many ways. One might freeze up, have tremors or even have panic attacks in extreme cases. Such people usually avoid situations where they are required to do maths. Singapore’s Maths curriculum is said to be one of the best in the world. Maths is one of the core subjects you need to pass to complete your education. So, in the case of students, it is not possible to avoid situations where they have to do maths.
People with Math anxiety often believe that they don’t have the talent or skill to complete the problems and are frightened by the concept of failing and letting down others. It is a form of test anxiety specific only to Math subjects. Many people dismiss it as a lack of courage and not a mental issue. But math anxiety is a real thing, and your children might be silently suffering from it. So, it is vital for you to know about it and figure out ways to handle such situations.
What can I do to help my child?
- Reassurance is the keyword
Talk to your children. Make sure they know that they have your full support and love. Sometimes the cause for your child’s math anxiety might be your high expectations. So, have an open conversation with your children and ask them what is troubling them. Take measures if the fault is on your side too.
- Do not byheart maths
Instead of rote memorization of formulae, teach your children to understand the logic and reason behind it. When students get a clear idea of the usage of math formulas, they will be able to apply it and solve problems much easier.
- Basics are key
Make sure your children understand the basics well. They are the stepping stones for your children to climb to the top of the maths tower. If your children seem to be struggling or have anxiety while solving maths problems, help them brush up on their basics.
- Encourage your children to ask questions
Tell your children it is okay to have doubts. Tell them they can ask it out loud and that teachers are always willing to help them out.
- Remind them that maths is not rigid
Tell your children that there are multiple ways of solving math problems. If they don’t understand a method their teacher taught in class, they can always look for alternate methods to find the answer.
- Positive self-talk
Teach your children to avoid negative self-talk and to practice positive self-talk. If someone believes that they can’t do something, the probability they will fail is 100%. So, instead of telling yourself that you can’t do it, try practicing telling yourself that you can do it and that you have the ability and intelligence to do it.
- Math games
Many online resources help your children become more skilled at maths. Playing math games can help children grasp complex concepts and also help them practice maths in a stress-free and fun manner. Help your children review and understand what they learn from the games.
- Journal and Self assessment
If your children have anxiety about solving math problems, it can be a good idea to tell them to journal their thoughts and fears every day. Putting your thoughts into paper can help you understand the issues better and tackle them. Review what you have been doing and how much you have progressed. Make changes in your plans which are not working and adapt accordingly.
- Take care of your child’s health
Make sure your children are healthy and active. Exercise and meditation can help the brain function and also help reduce stress. A balanced diet and enough sleep will ensure your children are energetic and their mental development is proper.
A message for children –
“Preparation is key”
Start preparing early for your maths exam. Work on your basics, start with simple problems and move forward. Make sure you practice every day and don’t slack off. Familiarizing yourself with the process and concepts will help you feel at ease. Try mock tests for math papers to get a better idea about the questions asked, and prepare for it. Read ahead of the portions that are going to be taught and prepare doubts. It can help your children better understand the teachers.
Following the above-mentioned steps can help your children deal with math-related anxiety and stress. Above all, support them and let them know you love them unconditionally. Let us know how it worked out for you and your children. Let us remember that Rome was not built in a day, and that really, the way to succeed in Mathematics is consistent practice. We wish you all the best! 🙂
Exam Smart Tips
Exam Smart Tip #1 – How to Encourage Our Kids to Speak Better?
Exam Smart Tip #2 – How to avoid carelessness?
Exam Smart Tip #3 – Establishing Routines!
Exam Smart Tip #4 – Let’s Read Carefully!
Exam Smart Tip #5 – Beating the Exam Fever!
Exam Smart Tip #6 – How to Eat Right for the Exams?
Exam Smart Tip #7 – How to Avoid a Meltdown?
Exam Smart Tip #8 – Taking Stress out of Tests
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