Math is a subject that many students in Singapore find challenging along the way, which can often lead to frustration and stress. While there are many different ways to go about teaching math, one thing is certain: the most effective way to grasp complex math concepts is by first mastering mental arithmetic. 

A firm foundation – combined with a strong number concept – can make a difference in how quickly your child can solve math problems, leaving sufficient time for them to check  through their workings in exams. With that in mind, parents and other family members can play a crucial role in a child’s ability to do math calculations. In fact, primary math enrichment should not just occur in the classroom but can also extend to the home environment. 

Here are some things you can do to give your child the best chance at success with this subject starting from the primary school syllabus.

How Can I Help My Child Achieve in Primary Math?

1. Understand Math Concepts

A child needs to integrate math concepts into daily living instead of viewing them as separate entities that are only applied in school. Examples of such integration include  counting the crockery and cutlery while setting the table, measuring ingredients while cooking, calculating grocery costs while shopping, practising math games online; playing board games and identifying patterns and shapes at home.

2. Test Multiplication Tables

Multiplication tables can be a nightmare for many children, but it is a necessary skill to help improve mental math. There is no need to panic, though. There are practical ways to help your child improve their confidence to master the art of the multiplication tables.

• The Number Block: The number block is a vital tool. Children with a good understanding of number sequencing, skip counting, and patterns will be at an advantage when multiplication tables are introduced. Skip counting is the foundation of multiplication tables.
• The 2x Table: The 2x table is another essential starting block. If a child has a firm understanding of the multiplication table for 2, understanding the trickier multiplication tables will be less challenging. The 4x and 8x tables are directly linked to the 2x table. If this is mastered well, the 4x and 8x tables will be a smoother transition.
• The Pattern: Finding the patterns is often the key to finding the answers. The 5x, 10x, and 11x tables are often a favourite in classrooms because their patterns are clear. Children learn the rule of ‘adding a zero’ and can solve the 10x table without a hassle. The 5x and 11x multiplication table has numbers in repetition. These are also easier multiplication tables to understand.

3. Try the V.A.K method

It is also important to remember that children are visual, auditory, and/or kinesthetic learners. Some children prefer to see the information visually, e.g., colour-coding a number block to show the pattern. Auditory learners process information more effectively when it is heard. For example, there are many songs to sing about multiplication tables that help children memorize them. Kinesthetic children learn through movement. Body movements can help a student to recall a multiplication table.

4. Encourage Neat Work

Neat handwriting should always be encouraged. We’ve also previously covered how writing an incorrect number in a rush can cause your child to lose marks. Untidy numbers can be misread, resulting in unnecessary mistakes. 

5. Positivity 

Finally, a positive attitude is a key to learning. Praise and positive incentives are also essential components. This mustn’t only occur when the child gets the answer right. There should be a focus on motivation and improvement. Short-term and long-term goals should be discussed. This helps to stop the child from feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, especially if they struggle with a particular concept.

Get Help

To give your child the best approach to math in primary school, start integrating math concepts at home. If your child is struggling with any math questions, don’t hesitate to ask someone for help. Superstar Teacher always has the answer for math enrichment for primary school students in Singapore.

Let us be part of your child’s learning journey today! Do call us at 63415516 or email us at enquiry@superstarteacher.com if you have any questions.

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