Learned Helplessness
Every teacher knows that one girl or boy in her classroom who just won't do "it," whatever "it" is: a math problem, essay writing, or jumping rope.
Read More5 Ways to Empower Your Child in Math, at RSM
Make the most of your child's time at RSM during this upcoming school year.
1. Be patient.
Whether your child is a beginner or advanced in mathematics, RSM is designed to be intellectually challenging. We only grow when we overcome challenges and RSM’s program is designed with that exact concept in mind. It’s okay if your child doesn’t catch on to everything at first; be patient and supportive. Their “aha!” moment will come, and when it does, it will be glorious. Use it as a teaching moment to boost your child's confidence – gaining knowledge doesn’t come easily, but it’s worth it in the end.
2. Make RSM a family experience.
Children react to and reflect the attitude of their parents. Even if math isn’t your favorite subject, find aspects of it that you’re interested in and discuss them with your child. RSM homework can be intriguing even for parents – have fun with it yourself. Give your child encouragement while they do their homework. Anything that conveys that math is important in your family will go a long way.
3. If you’re new to RSM, don’t be afraid of “I don’t get it.”
Our problems are specifically crafted to not have obvious solutions. Students have to work their way through multiple steps and try different approaches to get to the correct answer. Many new students aren’t accustomed to this type of multi-step work. This is a learning process, and soon, the “I don’t get it” will transform into “Give me a second…”
4. Encourage your child to “own” their homework.
In our homework assignments, we include not just problems that review previous material, but problems that take our students a step beyond what they’ve learned. It is completely natural (and expected) for students to find certain aspects of their homework assignments challenging.
If your child has trouble with their homework, we have a few suggestions to help you both. Sit down with your child and ask them to show you their notes from class. Ask your child to walk you through how the teacher explained this problem. Let them guide you. This is what we mean by “owning” the process. Guide your child to identify where they need help and to ask for the proper resources to get that help.
Please refrain from teaching your child the solution yourself. We teach a particular methodology and mixing the messages will only further confuse your child.
If your child remains stuck on the problem, have them mark it for their teacher to review in class. If you are looking for additional assistance, certain RSM branches offer virtual Homework Help. Contact your child’s teacher to get more information.
5. Talk with your child’s teacher.
As parents, we need a 360 degree view of our children, and your child’s teacher can help you achieve that. Teachers have a particular view of your child and we encourage you to use them as a resource. Talk with your child’s teacher to determine the best mode of communication (text, email, or phone), and stay in contact with them throughout the year. They are there to guide your child so they have a successful and uplifting year.
Empower Your Child at RSM
RSM offers a community founded on the importance and excitement rooted in the field of mathematics. While not all new students are equally as excited about math, the rigor and critical thinking they will learn at RSM will empower them to become better students and brighter learners.
This blog was previously published in 2020 and has since been updated.
