Helping Your Middle School Child in the
Area of Math
Modified and adapted from NCTM FigureThis! resources at figurethis.nctm.org
Be positive about mathematics
Children pay attention to what you say. Be mindful about how you talk about math.
Avoid negative comments about math such as, “I was never good at math.”
Help your child build a "can do" attitude about mathematics.
Remind your child that working hard often has great rewards.
Praise effort not intelligence. Use words like, “I like how hard you are trying.” Avoid saying things like, “You are smart.
Whenever possible, emphasize how important math is in everyday life.
Communicate with your child
Take time to ask your child what he/she is working on in math class. Ask him/her to explain it to you.
When working through a challenging math problem, do more listening than talking. Voicing his/her thinking is an essential part of learning. (Questions to Ask)
Try to work math into everyday conversation at home. Emphasize how important math is to you.
Problem-solve out loud so your child can learn how to think through the steps necessary to solve a problem. Role model mathematical thinking.
Create an appropriate learning environment
Provide materials and manipulatives that promote and support mathematics. Examples: pencils, paper, rulers, tape measures, counters, protractors, calculator, measuring spoons/cups, analog clock, graph paper, thermometer.
Create a “homework spot” in a well-lit area, complete with sharpened pencils and erasers, where your child can study and do homework.
Promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills
As your child works on math assignments, ask higher order thinking questions. Examples: How can you prove that? What would happen if...? Does that make sense? Can you predict what would happen next? How does this relate to...?
Encourage your child to solve problems a variety of ways. Examples: guess and check, draw a picture, make a list, solve a similar problem, look for a pattern, work backwards, use manipulatives, simulate the problem, make a list.