We’re Both College-Educated and We Feel Completely Helpless With Her Math

We’ve all been there – two educated, capable parents who cannot figure out why their child isn’t grasping math despite their own strong academic backgrounds. The frustration and helplessness can be overwhelming, especially when well-meaning advisors suggest that we should just “wait and see” if the child outgrows it or that the issue is solely due to a lack of effort or intelligence on the child’s part. But as parents, we know that’s not true. We’ve seen our child struggle, and we’ve tried everything to help them – from extra tutoring to specialized programs. Yet, despite our best efforts, the struggle persists.

The truth is, math struggles often stem from underlying processing gaps, not intelligence. The brain’s ability to rewire itself through targeted practice and intervention (neuroplasticity) means that these gaps can be addressed, regardless of the child’s or parents’ academic background. But it’s hard to know where to start, especially when the advice we’re given is flawed or misleading. That’s why it’s essential to understand the science behind math struggles and to find a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the problem.

In this article, we’ll explore the bold, science-backed truth about math struggles and what parents can do to help their child overcome them. We’ll delve into the latest research in neuroplasticity and the new IDA definition, and we’ll provide a clear, actionable plan for parents to follow. Whether you’re a parent who’s struggling to help your child with math or simply looking for a better understanding of the issue, this article is for you.

Understanding Math Struggles: A Comprehensive Approach

Math struggles are a common challenge many children face, and it’s essential to address these difficulties with a comprehensive approach. As a parent, it’s crucial to understand that math ability is not fixed and can be developed through practice, proper instruction, and building confidence. The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) has recognized the multi-system causation for dyslexia, which applies to all specific learning disabilities, including math struggles. This means that math difficulties often stem from underlying processing gaps, such as visual, auditory, or spatial processing issues, rather than a lack of intelligence or effort.

The Importance of Parental Involvement

Parental involvement is critical in helping children overcome math struggles. Parents have the deep influence required to help their child develop emotionally and build a healthy self-identity. Simple training on the parents’ part can work wonders, and with the right system and guidance, parent-implemented intervention can be more effective than professional services. The Learning Success All Access program provides a comprehensive system that guides parents through proven exercises and sequences, empowering them to become their child’s primary teacher.

For example, parents can use visual strategies to help their child build math foundations. This can include using visual aids like number lines, hundreds charts, or geometry shapes to help their child understand mathematical concepts. By using these strategies, parents can help their child develop a stronger understanding of math and build their confidence.

Transforming Deficit Language and Embracing Neuroplasticity

It’s essential to transform deficit language and embrace neuroplasticity when addressing math struggles. Instead of using deficit framing like “struggling math student” or “learning disabled,” we should focus on building math foundations and trainable processing differences. This approach helps to build a growth mindset and emphasizes that math ability can be developed through practice and targeted instruction. By using growth mindset principles, parents can help their child develop a positive attitude towards math and build their resilience.

For instance, parents can use focus-building strategies to help their child develop the ability to concentrate and pay attention to math tasks. This can include breaking down math problems into smaller steps, using visual aids to help their child stay focused, and providing positive reinforcement for effort and progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, math struggles require a comprehensive approach that addresses underlying processing gaps and builds math foundations. Parental involvement is critical, and with the right system and guidance, parents can become their child’s primary teacher. By transforming deficit language and embracing neuroplasticity, we can help children develop a growth mindset and build their confidence in math. By using visual strategies, focus-building techniques, and growth mindset principles, parents can help their child overcome math struggles and develop a lifelong love of learning.

For more information on how to help your child build math confidence and overcome math struggles, visit Learning Success All Access program. This comprehensive program provides a structured approach to building math foundations, including visual strategies, focus-building techniques, and growth mindset principles. With the right support and guidance, your child can develop a strong understanding of math and build their confidence.