Teaching Homeschool Math
I have heard parent after parent tell me that one of their greatest struggles is teaching math. Math seems to be equal to reading when it comes to parent’s greatest fear of failure is homeschooling their children. But math need not be the fear causing stressor it can sometimes be. Just take it like anything else that need to be learned. One day at a time and one step at a time.
Start with the very basics, numbers. Children shouldn’t move any further in math until they have their numbers down pat. When you child can read and write the numbers 0-9 then they are ready for some basic addition and subtraction. So don’t be afraid to go back to the basics if your child is struggling, even if they are several grade levels above that.
Then simply build on that. Learn to count by 2s, 5s, and 10s. Work on single digit addition and subtraction over and over. Use it in the grocery store, play math games, trade two items for two other items. Offer to give you child extra a small amount of mini MnMs if they can count the number of then in your hand. Start by letting your child just guess and then give them one either way, maybe give them two if they come close, and then as they master counting. They’ll be able to count and receive the whole amount.
Once you’re past the beginner math, you’re now ready to move into multiplication and division. There are many programs out there available to help you. For memorizing facts, there are flash cards and memory songs. But there are even games that teach multiplication and division. Once the children have started playing the game, they will learn the facts. Once a child learns the multiplication table, they should be taught how division relates to multiplication. They will then learn division twice as fast.
Once your child is ready for more advanced math, if you know it yourself, try teaching it to you child with something your child has already shown a positive response to. If games work, stick with games. You can use games all the way through Algebra. If you don’t know the math you’re trying to teach, learn it first. This is often a huge benefit to your child. You can relate to the struggle that you just went through. If your child is old enough, the two off you can learn together. This not only develops a common ground for the two of you, but shows that even adult have things to learn. I know personally that continually learning throughout adult hood is a wonderful habit and benefit to my family.
And when all else fails, grab a calculator and bring in a professional. In our house, that means Dad. But another homeschool student that has mastered the subject might serve as a great tutor and a sympathetic ear since they have been through the same thing.