Should parents be making extra space in their budget for math courses for their children outside of the classes they take in school? This is something many parents consider and for good reason. Math is a core subject all the way through college and has endless practical applications in everyday life. Let’s explore the reasons why extra math classes for elementary school students could be an investment that pays off big time. Here’s the Spark Math by Spark Education blog on the “Top 4 Reasons For Investing in Extra Math Classes for Elementary Students”
1. Gaining a Competitive Edge
Mastering math from a young age will make students stand out as they get older. Students that take impactful courses beyond their normal studies will more likely be ahead of their peers. From standardized testing to advanced placement courses, students with a better foundation will find themselves with an advantage. This advantage can translate to better college prospects.
This is doubly important for students with hopes of STEM careers. Math is the backbone of the STEM field and thus it is critical students have a strong foundation to build upon. Extra math work early gives students a better chance to succeed and use that math knowledge to excel in STEM.
2. Improve Grades or Catch Up
Math can be the hardest subject in school for many students. Maybe the teaching method doesn’t stimulate the student or the book material is too dense. However it may happen, falling behind can deeply impact the confidence and grades of students. Investing in extracurricular math classes can help students improve their understanding of math concepts, leading to higher grades and greater academic success.
An extended absence can also put students behind even if they aren’t having problems with their grades. Getting that extra help could be the catalyst to bring that student back up in line with their peers.
3. Preparing for Advanced Courses and Competitions
Parents may find their students are not being challenged in school and are looking for something more. Other students might be looking to skip ahead to higher-level math. Math competitions are highly beneficial for the right students; however, regular school lessons will not prepare students for a competition. Specialty math programs that tailor courses toward competition are a worthy investment for parents with competitive children.
It’s common for math levels to fluctuate from student to student. Advanced students will often be placed in advanced classes. To get prepared or to keep up with advanced classes, extra math courses could be the X factor to push those students to the top.
4. Cultivating Critical-Thinking Skills
Public school math curriculums can fall into the trap of rote memorization and overfocusing on solving equations. This method can work for some students but may hinder others. Advanced math and practical applications call for critical thinking rather than a memorized formula. Finding a more comprehensive math program outside of school could be the key to creating a dynamic critical thinker.
With the right course, students will not only improve their math abilities but also exercise essential academic and life skills. Critical thinking goes beyond math to other subjects and to problem solving in daily life. This is something parents should consider when they think of budgeting for extra math work.
Get to the next level with Spark Math!
If it is within the budget, there are a variety of impactful reasons why extra math courses are worth the money. Strong math and critical thinking skills are something children can take into college and adulthood. Creating the best foundation for success and math is an important step in setting up a child for life.
Learn more about how Spark Math by Spark Education helps test preparation, grows math scores, and makes learning fun for your child! Classes are for children ages 5-9. Sign up for a FREE trial class today!
