What should I do if my child is struggling with a math homework assignment?

 

    1.    Ask your child to re-read the problem again carefully, aloud.  (Alternatively, have someone read it to him/her).

           Determine what you child understands about the problem and where the confusion happens.

 

    2.    Ask your child to explain a problem that they did in class today, and suggest that your child look back at

           yesterday’s (or previous) assignments.  These questions/problems may offer hints and provide direction.

 

    3.    Have your child call a friend or two and discuss the problem over the phone.  

 

    4.    If the first three steps have failed, ask your child to write a clear question about the problem to share with me.

 

It may help to keep in mind that today’s homework is often different than from what parents experienced in math class while growing up.  Homework today is no longer simply practice of a skill that was demonstrated in class, but often a challenging learning experience.

 

As your child’s teacher, while I hope students are able to complete and understand all of their homework, I understand that today’s problems are more difficult and not all students will return to class the next day with a correct answer or a clear understanding of the concepts involved.  I do expect that students have made sufficient effort on each problem to participate in the detailed discussions that will come in the next class period.  The objectives in each class period are to share ideas, deal with misconceptions and questions, and help each student develop a deeper understanding of the concepts and skills.

 

Each student is, at times, going to struggle with problems and questions.  For children to think at higher levels, this struggle is necessary.  Persistence is desirable; frustration is not.  Teachers and parents working together can help children walk the fine line between the two.

 

 

First, I acknowledge, empathize, and respect your efforts to support your child when they run into difficulty with a homework assignment!  You are not in a unique position as many parents eventually get to the point where they cannot help with homework in all subjects, not just math.  When you reach this point, do no let problems with homework create an undue amount of stress in the home.  Please write me a note explaining that you were not able to help and I will gladly make sure you child gets the help they need to understand.  That is what I am here for!