6 Tips to Help Children Overcome Math Anxiety

It's not uncommon for mathematics to cause feelings of dread and anxiety for young kids. The very thought of solving a complicated sum or doing mental calculations in front of others can bring on the sweaty palms and racing heartbeat in even the best of us!

Research shows that math anxiety can begin as early as year one, so it's important that parents take early measures to prevent their child from developing negative feelings about math.

Here are six ways you can help your child overcome math anxiety and help them develop a positive attitude towards numbers and arithmetic early on in life.

1. Don't let your own anxieties get in the way

As adults, many of us have our own insecurities about mathematics and aren't afraid to express it. This can send the wrong message to your child, for example: ‘If my parent doesn't need math, then I don't', or ‘If adults think mathematics is hard, then there's no hope for me.' Try to avoid talking negatively about math and be conscious of how your perceptions can unintentionally impact your child's confidence.

2. Embrace mistakes

Avoid getting frustrated or putting a big red X over an incorrect answer. Instead of saying ‘No that's wrong', you can say, ‘Let's work this out together.' Ask your child to show you how they have tried to solve a problem and say, ‘What might happen if we try this instead?' A good idea is to use different shaded pencils to show different strategies. Mistakes are a natural and integral part of learning, and it's important for your child to understand that. Assure your child that even you make mistakes from time to time.

3. Be positive

Positive reinforcement is a valuable tool for helping struggling children to build their confidence and stay motivated to learn. It's about reinforcing what they do right, rather than focusing on what they do wrong. When your child sits down to solve a sum or shows determination towards understanding a particular skill or concept, be sure to reward your child with encouragement, praise, a smile or even a hug.

4. Express fears in writing

Researchers have found that expressive writing can be an effective tool in helping children overcome feelings of anxiety. In one study, a group of students who were asked to write about their fears before an exam were able to improve their average grade from around a B- to a B+. You can encourage your child to list words to describe how mathematics makes them feel. You can even help them to write a story about a character that overcomes a fear of mathematics, and winds up learning to enjoy it!

5. Relate mathematics to real‑life situations

Encourage your child to see how mathematics can be applied to real‑life situations, and why it's so important. This will allow their natural sense of curiosity to take over their fears. Your child will become more eager to learn, ask questions and look out for more opportunities to show you how well they've grasped key concepts. You can integrate mathematics into everyday activities such as shopping, creating a weekly budget and cooking. 

6. Try an online mathematics program

Online learning programs are a fantastic way to build your children's confidence in in the familiar and nurturing home environment. A research‑based education program like Mathseeds is designed to match your child's individual ability and progress at their own pace with interactive, one‑on‑one lessons. Online programs are also great for motivating children to learn and improve with rewards, vibrant animations and entertaining songs.

For more ideas on how get rid of math anxiety and make math fun, check out:

• 6 Fun Math Games to Try at Home

• 5 Creative Counting Games for Kids