This might be a simple word, but for the average 8-year-old, it’s like uttering “Dracarys.” Once they hear it, they run and take cover. If your child falls under this category of students, you aren’t alone. Jo Boaler, a professor of mathematics education at Stanford University, says that math anxiety affects up to 50% of the US population. This anxiety often leads to a phobia of the subject, and subsequently, the kid in question loses all interest in math.

Fortunately, there are many ways to combat math anxiety and keep children interested in math. With new technology for math being developed every day, you have a wide range of solutions at your fingertips. So, without further ado, let’s explore the best ways to boost your 8-year-old’s interest in math, shall we?

Play math games

Several centuries ago, the Greek philosopher Plato proposed a constructive role of playing in education. As time went on, other philosophers and educators expanded and toyed with this theory until the 20th century, when Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky finally introduced game-based learning as a pedagogical approach at the university level.

After years of rigorous research, several educators have proven that game-based learning can help students assimilate math concepts faster and remember what they’ve learned for longer. More importantly, this approach to learning stimulates a student and keeps them interested in the subject. This explains why Brighterly.com and other edtech platforms have integrated a game-based learning approach into their curriculum. So, if you’re trying to keep your 8-year-old interested in math, throwing math games into the mix is a great way to start.

For instance, you can try out board math games and activities such as checkers. Alternatively, you can take advantage of math technology by downloading educational games for your kid. This will help you create interactive maths sessions for your young learners.

Teach kids that math is everywhere

More often than not, the reluctance to learn math stems from the erroneous belief that you don’t need math as an adult. Now, here’s the truth. Although no one will ever ask you about the Pythagoras theorem unless you’re a math major, we can find math in almost every aspect of our lives. Our grocery shopping, our finances; preparing dinner, pumping gas – just about anything you can think of. These seemingly mundane tasks involve an aspect of math. 

So, if your child seems disinterested in math, show them why they need it. Show them that math is everywhere, in the skies and even in our phones. Once they begin to see and value the importance of math, they’ll be more motivated to pay attention to their math classes.

Take a child’s interests into account

Here’s the thing: math isn’t all about following a rigid curriculum. In fact, the rigidity we find in traditional classrooms is a primary reason why kids often hate math. If your child doesn’t like math, you can motivate them by aligning each math lesson to their interests. Wondering how to pull this off? It’s pretty simple.

If your child loves dolls and fashion, you could visit a boutique or fabric store together. Measure the lengths of different fabrics and calculate how much material they’d need to create their dream princess dress. Alternatively, you could grab a measuring tape and try to measure the length of different heels. This fun yet simple activity will teach a child basic units of measurement and keep them interested in math.

Similarly, if your child loves computers and other tech gadgets, you could sign them up for a coding class. When you align math with your child’s hobbies, their interests in the subject will blossom, and they’ll begin to look forward to the next session.

Be patient and persistent

What happens when you encounter a complex problem that you can’t seem to solve? Do you hiss in frustration and give up? Or do you treat it as a fun challenge and adventure? If you’re trying to keep your 8-year-old interested in math, it’s essential to model the second approach. Kids often feel discouraged when they can’t seem to solve math problems. This is quite normal. However, when you model patience and persistence, children will begin to emulate you. Subsequently, when they stumble upon complex problems, they won’t pull out their hair or slam their textbooks shut in frustration. Instead, they’ll keep trying until they arrive at a solution.

Get enthusiastic

Did you know that kids tend to mirror their parents? According to the Urban Child Institute, children often reflect parental behavior and feelings. This means that when you’re enthusiastic about a concept, your enthusiasm will most likely rub off on them, and they’d follow suit. 

Thus, to keep your 8-year-old interested in math, you must lead by example. Treat each math lesson like an adventure you can’t wait to get on. Over time, they’ll begin to mirror this enthusiasm and look forward to each class. On the other hand, if they feel that you don’t like math, their anxiety will worsen, and you’ll be back to square one. 

Go on field trips together

Field trips are a great way to make math concepts more exciting and lively. The best part? Almost every child loves field trips, so you’re not just winging it. If you have a math or science museum nearby, you could take a kid there and show them some exhibits. Be sure to discuss the mathematical designs behind each exhibit or ask for a tour guide. 

More importantly, talk to your child about famous mathematicians and their inventions. Having these figures as role models will certainly inspire your child and make them more willing to learn math.

Final Thoughts

Keeping an 8-year-old interested in anything, much less math, can be tricky. Fortunately, with the handy tips outlined above, you’re well on your way to success. Since we’re in a digital age, remember to use technology math tools to your advantage by downloading math lessons online, using games, or trying out virtual field trips. You’ll undoubtedly see the results!

Also Read: The Top Technological Trends In Education