Mathematics is an important part of a child’s education, but not every child finds it easy. While some children enjoy working with numbers, others struggle to remember basic calculations, understand mathematical concepts or solve problems without assistance.
For parents, watching a child struggle with maths can be frustrating, especially when the child begins to lose interest or confidence. However, finding mathematics difficult does not mean a child cannot improve.
With patience, regular practice, encouragement and the right learning approach, helping children improve in mathematics can become a more positive experience for both parents and children.
Understanding why a child struggles is the first step towards finding practical ways to help.
Why Do Some Children Struggle with Mathematics?
Children learn at different speeds, and their challenges with mathematics may have different causes. Understanding these difficulties can help parents provide better support.
1. Weak Foundation in Basic Mathematics
Mathematical concepts often build on one another. A child who has difficulty understanding addition, subtraction or number relationships may struggle when introduced to multiplication, division and more advanced topics.
When the foundation is not strong, each new lesson can become more challenging.
Parents can help by revisiting basic concepts and allowing children enough time to understand them before moving to more difficult tasks.
2. Fear of Making Mistakes
Some children become anxious when asked to solve mathematical problems. They may worry about giving the wrong answer, being corrected in front of others or performing poorly in class.
This fear can affect their willingness to participate, ask questions or attempt unfamiliar problems.
Parents should create a supportive environment where mistakes are treated as opportunities to learn. Praising effort, patience and improvement can help children approach mathematics with greater confidence.
3. Limited Practice
Like reading, writing and other important skills, mathematical calculation improves with practice.
When children rarely practise what they learn, they may find it difficult to recall number facts or solve familiar problems quickly.
Short, regular practice sessions can help children become more comfortable with numbers. Simple activities involving counting, adding prices while shopping or calculating small quantities can make mathematics part of everyday life.
4. Difficulty Concentrating on Calculations
Some children find it challenging to maintain attention while working through mathematical problems, particularly when the tasks feel repetitive or overwhelming.
Breaking problems into smaller steps, using visual learning materials and introducing enjoyable activities may help children remain engaged.
Parents should also consider whether the child needs additional support from their teacher to understand the lesson.
5. Learning Methods That Do Not Suit the Child
Children do not always respond to the same teaching methods. Some understand concepts better through visual demonstrations, while others benefit from hands-on activities or repeated guided practice.
If a child continues to struggle, it may help to explore different ways of presenting the same concept.
The goal is not to label a child as poor at mathematics but to discover what helps them learn more effectively.
How Parents Can Help Children Improve in Mathematics
Parents play an important role in shaping how children feel about learning. Here are practical ways to support your child’s progress.
1. Make Mathematics Part of Everyday Activities
Children do not have to learn mathematics only from textbooks. Everyday activities provide opportunities to practise number skills naturally.
For example, parents can ask children to:
- Count the number of fruits in a basket.
- Calculate the total cost of two or three items.
- Compare quantities or identify which number is larger.
- Work out how many minutes remain before an activity begins.
- Share items equally among family members.
These activities help children recognise that mathematics is useful beyond the classroom.
2. Encourage Progress Instead of Demanding Perfection
Every child needs time to develop new skills. Comparing a child with siblings, classmates or other children can create unnecessary pressure.
Instead, celebrate small improvements. If a child previously struggled with addition but can now solve several questions independently, acknowledge that progress.
Encouragement can motivate children to keep practising, even when they encounter difficult problems.
3. Use Games and Interactive Learning
Learning can become more enjoyable when children participate actively.
Number games, puzzles, counting challenges and age-appropriate mathematical activities can encourage children to practise without feeling that every exercise is a test.
When children enjoy the learning process, they may become more willing to explore numbers, attempt new problems and practise regularly.
4. Establish a Simple Practice Routine
Consistent practice is often more manageable than occasional, lengthy study sessions.
Parents can set aside a short period each day for mathematical activities, adjusting the duration to suit the child’s age, attention span and learning needs.
The aim is to build a steady learning habit rather than overwhelm the child with too many questions at once.
5. Communicate with Your Child’s Teacher
If your child continues to experience difficulties, speak with their teacher to understand which areas require attention.
Ask whether the challenge involves basic number concepts, understanding instructions, concentration or applying mathematical methods.
If difficulties persist despite appropriate support, consider discussing them with a qualified educational professional who can help identify any additional learning needs.
Can Abacus Training Help Children Develop Better Calculation Skills?
One learning approach parents can explore is abacus training.
An abacus is a counting tool that allows children to represent numbers and perform calculations using beads. With guided instruction and consistent practice, learners can progress from manipulating the beads physically to visualising the abacus while solving calculations mentally.
This approach provides children with a practical way to engage with numbers rather than relying only on written exercises.
Abacus training can support the development of mental calculation skills, speed and accuracy with practice. The extent of progress varies from child to child, and abacus training should complement, rather than replace, a good understanding of mathematical concepts taught in school.
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, children learn through the SIMA approach to Soroban Intelligent Mental Arithmetic. The learning process introduces children to abacus calculations and develops towards mental calculation through visualisation and practice.
The aim is to make learning engaging while giving children opportunities to strengthen their calculation skills.
What Should Parents Look for in a Mathematics Learning Programme?
Choosing a suitable programme involves more than looking for fast answers. Parents should consider whether the learning environment supports understanding, participation and steady progress.
Look for a programme that:
- Matches activities to the child’s age and learning level.
- Encourages regular practice and active participation.
- Provides clear guidance and feedback.
- Makes learning engaging without putting unnecessary pressure on children.
- Helps children develop accuracy alongside speed.
- Allows parents to understand their child’s progress.
A positive learning environment can make a difference in how children approach mathematical challenges.
Helping Children Improve in Mathematics Starts with the Right Support
A child who struggles with mathematics today can make progress with appropriate guidance, consistent practice and encouragement. Parents do not need to have all the answers themselves; what matters is helping children access the support and learning opportunities they need.
Start with the basics, make room for questions, celebrate improvement and look for learning methods that keep your child engaged.
If you would like your child to explore abacus learning and develop mental calculation skills, SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy offers a structured learning approach designed to make mathematics more engaging.
Give your child the opportunity to explore the world of numbers with SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy.
SIMA Time… Fun Time!
Visit SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy to learn more about the academy and its learning approach.