Concerned Mother: No money to send Son to Math tuition

Dear Agony Aunt,

I am writing to you out of sheer desperation regarding my son, who is in primary school. He has recently developed a strong aversion to math lessons, and it’s breaking my heart to see him struggle.

Despite his efforts, he finds math incredibly challenging and often comes home frustrated and upset. I’ve tried to encourage him, but my own math skills are not great, and I feel utterly helpless. Unfortunately, I also cannot afford to send him to tuition classes, which I believe could help him catch up and regain his confidence.

I want to support him, but I’m at a loss as to how to make math more enjoyable for him or how to help him improve. I fear that if this continues, it will impact his overall attitude towards school and learning.

Any advice or suggestions you could offer would be greatly appreciated. I just want to help my son succeed and feel good about himself.

Thank you for your time.

Warm regards,
A Concerned Mother

Dear Concerned Mother,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns about your son. It’s clear that you care deeply for him and want to support him in his education, which is a wonderful first step.

First, it’s important to acknowledge that many children struggle with certain subjects, and math can be particularly challenging for some. Your son’s feelings are valid, and it’s great that you’re looking for ways to help him navigate this.

Here are a few suggestions that might help both you and your son:

1. Make Math Fun: Try to incorporate math into everyday activities. Cooking, shopping, or even playing games that involve counting or problem-solving can make math more engaging. For instance, ask him to help measure ingredients or calculate the total cost of items in your shopping cart.
2. Use Online Resources: There are numerous free online platforms and apps designed to make math fun and interactive. Websites like Tuition Near Me or Math Playground offer engaging exercises that can reinforce what he learns in school.
3. Create a Study Routine: Set aside a specific time each day for math practice. Keep these sessions short and fun to avoid overwhelming him. Praise his efforts, no matter how small, to boost his confidence.
4. Seek Help from Teachers: Don’t hesitate to reach out to his math teacher. They can provide additional resources, suggest strategies, or even offer extra help during school hours.
5. Encourage a Growth Mindset: Teach your son that it’s okay to struggle with something and that making mistakes is part of learning. Encourage him to keep trying, and celebrate his progress, no matter how minor.
6. Peer Support: If possible, arrange playdates with classmates who excel in math. Sometimes, learning from peers can make a significant difference.

Remember, you’re not alone in this. Many parents face similar challenges, and it’s commendable that you’re seeking solutions. With time, patience, and the right approach, your son can develop a more positive attitude toward math.

Wishing you both the best of luck on this journey!

Warm regards,
Agony Aunt