Building a Love for Maths: A Parent's Guide to Success

Mathematics was always one of my favourite subjects at school. I enjoyed puzzles and subjects with a fixed set of rules that could be learned and applied to practical problems. Unlike essay-based subjects, where marks might be deducted for leaving out one of many points or for not phrasing answers perfectly, maths felt fair and logical.

Unfortunately, mathematics as a subject has never had a good reputation. Many parents inadvertently pass on their own loathing for maths to their children, or children hear from peers that “math is difficult,” “boys are better at maths than girls,” or “I can’t do maths.”

I believe that success in mathematics can be achieved by focusing on three key approaches:

1. Getting past myths, beliefs, and anxieties about maths

2. Approaching maths like a logical game or puzzle

3. Taking a methodical, organised approach to practising maths problems regularly

Let’s explore each of these in more detail.

1. Overcoming Myths and Anxieties About Maths

As a parent, you have a significant influence on how your child views mathematics. This often starts with examining your own beliefs and anxieties about the subject and consciously choosing not to pass these onto your child. Be mindful of how you speak about maths in their presence. If your child expresses negative thoughts like “I’m bad at maths,” gently correct them and encourage positive, growth-oriented talk instead. While you may not have control over what their friends say, you can encourage them to seek support from peers who are confident in maths. This can help counter negative messages.

Timed tests are another common source of maths anxiety. When your child is learning a new skill, allow them to practise without the pressure of a timer. Once they’ve mastered the skill, you can introduce time constraints gradually to build their confidence.

2. Viewing Maths as a Logical Game or Puzzle

Ask your child about their favourite game—whether it’s a video game, a sport, or a board game. Most games have rules, and to succeed, players need to practise and build experience. The same principles apply to maths. When learning a new maths skill, students are given basic rules and information to follow. Practising these problems helps them:

• Apply the rules to increasingly complex problems

• Develop their own techniques and strategies for solving unique challenges

The beauty of mathematics is its simplicity. Unlike other subjects, maths isn’t content-heavy. As students master basic skills, these form the foundation for more advanced concepts, eventually becoming second nature.

3. Practising Maths Regularly and Methodically

Consistent practice is key to mastering maths, but it shouldn’t feel monotonous. Often, teachers assign a fixed number of problems for students to solve, regardless of whether they’ve understood the concept. Instead, if your child grasps the concept after solving just two problems, encourage them to move on to a more challenging task. Conversely, if they’re struggling after multiple attempts, revisit the underlying rules or return to foundational skills that may not have been fully mastered. Once they’ve reviewed these, encourage them to try again.

Maths is an active, hands-on subject. Understanding doesn’t come from simply reading theory, watching videos, or paging through past papers. It requires consistent engagement with problems.

Mathematics doesn’t have to be a source of stress or anxiety. By addressing negative beliefs, treating maths as a logical puzzle, and adopting a regular, focused practice routine, children can build confidence and excel in the subject. As parents, your role in shaping their attitude and approach to maths is invaluable. With patience, encouragement, and the right strategies, you can help your child develop a genuine appreciation for the beauty and logic of mathematics.