As a parent, you want to support your child’s education, but what happens when they come home with math homework that looks completely unfamiliar? If you find yourself staring at their assignments and thinking, "I don’t remember how to do this," you’re not alone. Math instruction has evolved over the years, and many parents struggle to help their children with concepts they haven’t studied in decades. Fortunately, there are ways to support your child, even if you don’t feel confident in your own math skills.
There are several reasons why parents may struggle to help with math homework:
The good news is that you don’t need to be a math expert to help your child succeed. Here’s what you can do:
Instead of giving answers, ask your child to explain their thought process. Questions like, "What do you think the problem is asking?" or "How did your teacher explain this?" can help them think through the steps.
There are countless websites, videos, and tutorials that break down math concepts in an easy-to-follow way. Some great resources include:
If your child is consistently struggling, reach out to their teacher. They can provide guidance, extra resources, or suggest tutoring options.
Sometimes, professional help is the best solution. A tutor can provide individualized support, clarify confusing concepts, and build your child’s confidence in math.
Remind your child that struggling with math doesn’t mean they’re bad at it. Encourage a growth mindset by praising their effort and persistence rather than just correct answers.
Many parents feel overwhelmed when trying to help with math homework, but you don’t have to go through it alone. By encouraging problem-solving skills, using available resources, and seeking help when needed, you can support your child’s math journey—without needing to relearn everything yourself!
