How to help your child with maths at home
In short, use everyday moments, real objects and short, regular practice. Children usually understand maths best when they can see and handle it first, then draw it, and only then work with numbers alone.
Many parents feel unsure helping with maths, especially when methods have changed since they were at school. The good news is that some of the most useful maths help at home has nothing to do with worksheets.
Make it concrete first
Children often grasp an idea more securely when they can see and handle it. Counting real objects, sharing food, measuring ingredients or using coins makes numbers mean something before they appear on paper.
Everyday maths ideas
- Cooking and baking, with weighing, measuring and halving recipes
- Shopping, with adding up prices and working out change
- Time, with how long until dinner or a favourite programme
- Board and card games that involve counting, scoring or strategy
- Spotting shapes, patterns and numbers on a walk
Short practice works
A few minutes of regular practice on number facts, such as number bonds or times tables, usually helps more than long sessions. Ask your child's teacher which methods they use in class so you can support rather than confuse.
If your child is anxious about maths
Some children decide early that they are not a maths person. Noticing effort, keeping practice light and avoiding timed pressure at home can help rebuild their confidence.
Common questions
What if I do not understand the method my child uses?
Ask your child to teach it to you. Explaining it helps their understanding, and you can ask the teacher for a short guide to the methods used in class.
Should my child learn times tables at home?
Short, regular practice at home often helps, especially through games and quick questions rather than long drills.
In parent teaching sessions, a Qualified Teacher shows you how to explain maths in a way that makes sense to your child, and gives you a simple plan to follow at home, including for children who learn differently.
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