by Sam Weaver

Created on: August 02, 2009   Last Updated: August 06, 2009

I can't do Math.

Is this your child's mantra every time they try to do their math homework. or their response when they bring home a low grade in math class? Do you want to help them succeed, but you don't even know where to begin?

Math is the language of numbers. If you can't conjugate verbs or you only know a few words in English, your English skills will not be good, the same is true for math.

There are three main building blocks for Mathematics:

1. Math facts - You need to be able to quickly and correctly recall the answers to addition facts of single digit numbers and their corresponding subtraction facts. You also need to know the answers to multiplication facts of single digit numbers and their corresponding division facts.

2. Computation skills - Once math facts are mastered, the next class of problems to master is computation. In order to master computation, you need to be able to recall the steps to calculate addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers with multiple digits, and accurately use the appropriate computation algorithm and math facts to complete computation problems successfully.

3. Abstraction - Once you have mastered computation, you are ready for the next step in mathematics; realizing that you can complete mathematical algorithms on objects and ideas that aren't numbers. Substituting an x for an unkown number is the basis for Algebra. Geometry, Calculus and Engineering are all just more complex ideas that can be mastered with more involved layers of abstraction and computation.

A person with a math disability usually is having difficulty with one or more of the above building blocks. Once, they have figured out a way to cope with their difficulty and master the building blocks, they will find progressing in math is not only possible, but it can even be enjoyable.

I have helped students overcome difficulties, and seen them succeed and sometimes flourish in math. Some of the things I have learned along the way.

1. If a student is good in math, they can learn it from anyone. If a student struggles in math they need an excellent and patient math teacher to succeed.

2. No matter how old you are, if you cannot perform multi-step math computations, you will have trouble succeeding in Algebra and more advanced topics. There is no substitute for learning math facts, and accurately completing computation algorithms. Long division reviews all addition, subtraction, and multiplication math facts and computation skills. Even though a calculator can divide with ease, practicing long division manually until a student can complete problems accurately and with ease is a great skill builder for more complex math. Even if your child is given a calculator to use on tests and in class, have them work on this skill if they want to succeed in high school subjects or beyond.

3. Every person will reach a point that the level of abstraction needed to work on mathematical ideas is beyond their ability. Sometimes it is developmental. Although, schools don't like to do this, if your child has hit a math wall in Algebra or beyond, I recommend repeating a year in a math class that they can succeed in, and regroup to decide what the best program will be for them.

4. If it is too stressful for you to work with your child, look for someone who your child wants to work with. The ideas of math are most easily learned when everyone is calm and supportive. Find someone who your child enjoys working with, and they will be on the road to success.

Good Luck!

Learn more about this author, Sam Weaver.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.