Maths homework is one of the most common flashpoints in family evenings. For children who find mathematics challenging, the nightly encounter with questions they cannot immediately answer can trigger real anxiety. For parents who do not feel confident in their own mathematical abilities, the attempt to help can feel intimidating. Here are some practical strategies that genuinely work.
Start With Curiosity, Not Correction
When sitting down with your child to look at maths homework, resist the impulse to immediately identify what is wrong and correct it. Instead, begin by asking your child to talk you through what they understand about the question. This serves several purposes: it activates their existing knowledge, it helps you understand where the confusion lies, and it positions them as the one doing the thinking rather than you.
Very often, the act of explaining what they understand reveals to the child where their understanding breaks down – a phenomenon that teachers call ‘explaining to learn’. The point of confusion, once identified, can be addressed much more precisely.
Work Backwards from Understanding
If your child is stuck on a concept, try to identify the simplest possible example of that concept that they can understand. Build from there. A child who cannot divide fractions may be confused because they do not yet have a firm understanding of what a fraction represents. Going back to basics temporarily is not a step backwards – it is a strategic move towards genuine understanding.
Make It Concrete
Abstract mathematical concepts are often easier to grasp when illustrated with physical objects or real-world examples. Using fruit, coins, or household objects to model fractions, ratios, or basic algebra grounds the abstract in the familiar and accessible. This is not a shortcut – it is how mathematical understanding is actually built.
When You Do Not Know the Answer
If you encounter a method you do not recognise from your own school days, acknowledge it honestly and explore it with your child. ‘I don’t know this method – can you show me how your teacher explained it?’ is a perfectly reasonable response that models intellectual humility and curiosity without undermining your child’s confidence.
St Hilda’s School builds genuine mathematical confidence through expert teaching and individual support. Find out more at https://www.sthildasharpenden.co.uk/
