Why Do Some Parents Avoid Math with Their Children?
Many adults feel less confident with mathematics than with reading, even when it comes to simple reading tasks like news articles, novels, and most non-fiction books except for textbooks and technical manuals. Reading is often deemed a necessary and comfortable skill, accessible to most parents at an 8th-grade level. However, math, often considered a more complex subject, presents a higher barrier for many parents.
The Disconnect in Math Skills Among Parents
While most parents can easily read at an 8th-grade level, the skills required for math, especially advanced topics like algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus, require deeper understanding and often higher education. My own experience reflects this divide, as my parents, despite my father’s advanced education and my mother’s high school education, stopped working on math problems with me in middle school.
Conversely, my background, with an engineering degree and a graduate degree in counseling including a course in statistics, allowed me to confidently work with my own children on high school math, including calculus and college-level statistics. This disparity in parental math skills highlights the broad spectrum of mathematical abilities among adults.
Building a Foundation for Future Success
My engagement with my grandson on math problems was not just about imparting knowledge but helping him visualize mathematical problems as easily as one might visualize a story. This kind of parental involvement in math can significantly influence a child’s attitude and skills towards mathematics. All parents should work with their children on math, as it is a fundamental part of their daily lives, from shopping and budgeting to financial decision-making and income tax filing.
Math is often perceived as abstract and difficult, but it is actually deeply integrated into our daily lives. Without a solid understanding of basic math concepts, individuals may struggle financially and face challenges in various aspects of life. The caution often given that "math is hard because it’s so abstract" is misplaced. Math is not abstract; it is the very tool that shapes our understanding of the world around us and our ability to make informed decisions.
Encouraging Parental Involvement in Math
To build a strong foundation in mathematics, parents need to be invested and engaged. Parents who are mathematically adept can significantly improve their children's math skills by showing them real-life applications of math concepts. For those who find math challenging, it is crucial to recognize the importance of this subject and seek additional resources or support to gain confidence in their own skills.
One of the simplest ways to encourage math skills is by making it fun and relatable. Encouraging children to see the logic and the patterns in numbers can make math more approachable. By engaging in activities like shopping, budgeting, and simple problem-solving, parents can help their children understand the practical applications of math in a way that is both enjoyable and instructive.
Finally, the belief that "math is inherently difficult" is a significant barrier to parental involvement. This sentiment can be countered by emphasizing that with the right tools and a bit of effort, anyone can improve their math skills. Parents should strive to create a positive and encouraging environment that fosters confidence and a love for learning.