When it comes to learning, people are always looking for ways to make children more excited about math. Whether they are struggling to learn new concepts or are excited about problem solving and want to go into competition math, finding a way to grow math knowledge is important. A study by “Facts and Factors Research” has shown that tutoring and education programs were an industry worth nearly 30 billion in 2021. With so many choices in picking a math program to help children, let’s look at some great ways to find the perfect math program based on what’s needed.
What is a Math Program?
Math programs, sometimes known as supplementary math programs, are programs outside of the regular schooling children use. Math programs can help students support, catch up, and advance in their everyday math knowledge. There are many different types of ways this program supports. Some offer worksheets and supplemental materials for use at home or as materials for teachers. These programs can also include online and in-person supplemental classes, tutors, online games, and countless amount of ways to educate children about math. Every program has benefits and struggles that need to be looked at. So here is some help starting a journey of finding the right math program based on the child.
How to Find the Right Math Program
- Consider the math program based on the child’s needs
The first step in finding the right math program is to consider your child’s specific needs and goals. Is the goal to catch up or keep up with the in class work or is it to use the passion they have for math to compete in math competitions? Is the goal to supplement a homeschool math curriculum? Sometimes a student just needs a little extra work or a way to use what they are learning in a fun way, like online games or videos. Knowing the goal for a child is as important, if not more important, than how well-rated the program is. This is why research is important.
- Understand the different types of math programs available
Once there is a clear idea of a child’s needs, it’s time to start researching different math programs. Look for programs that align with a student’s learning style and goals. Some children are better with one on one learning, either from a tutor, professional teacher, or even A.I. self-paced classes. Others work better by learning through playing with games and animations. Some students learn best through social learning, so having other students to work with, maybe in smaller groups, could be beneficial. It’s important that students are investing in how they learn. It will make finding the right math program for them easier.
Tips For Choosing the Right Math Program
- Get advice from teachers and parents
It can be helpful to seek recommendations from other parents, teachers, or trusted educators. They may be able to provide valuable insights and personal experiences with different programs. Many teachers use math programs to find supplemental math programs like worksheets, games and support. A child’s teacher is also a valuable source for what they notice with how their students learn best. If a student is better at English or science than math, what is it about those subjects that speak to them?
People often feel like they shouldn’t ask other parents about supplemental learning, for a variety of reasons. While sometimes it can feel like your situation is specific, many parents deal with searching for the right fit for their children’s supplemental learning. Finding math groups on Facebook and other social media platforms are a great way to get advice directly from another parent in similar positions. There are tons of communities, both in-person and online, that help parents build the right learning community for their children.
- Try it out
Many math programs offer free trials or demos, so you can try out the program before committing to it. This can be a great way to see if the program is a good fit and determine if it is worth the investment. From free game trials online to full classes with a live teacher, there are so many ways to learn. Heading into a math program without making sure it’s the right fit for a child is more than just a waste of money, it can also cause added stress to a student. For students both excited about math or need a little help, being taught in a way they aren’t connecting with could result in a loss of interest. Once a child finds a math program that makes them happy and excited to learn, there’s no limit to where they can go.
- Be supportive
Just like all of a child’s educational journey, it’s important to monitor progress and make changes as needed. If a child is struggling with a particular concept, consider seeking additional help or adjusting the program to better meet their needs. A subject like math is a journey, with skills building upon each other. Support your students from the beginning so they can feel confident. If learning becomes too challenging or is seen as a punishment, it could not only cause a dislike of math but learning in general. Education is a journey throughout the family. Make sure all members of that journey is working together. Students, parents, teachers, and math programs all make up the foundation for learning.
Math Programs are a great way to get students on track with where they want their math skills to develop. It’s important to know that they aren’t all the same. While it’s not always easy to find the right program based on the student, nothing feels better than seeing a child succeed and become interested in learning new things. Enjoy the journey and good luck!
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