The Secret to Helping Your Child with New Math (Even if It Feels Foreign)

You glance at your child’s math homework, and suddenly, it’s like you’re staring at a foreign language.

What happened to the math you knew?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Parents everywhere are feeling confused by "new math," but here’s the good news: You can still help your child succeed, even if the methods look strange.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly how you can support your child’s learning, without needing a degree in modern math!

Why New Math Looks Different

New math, often associated with the Common Core, might look different from what many of us grew up with. Instead of focusing only on memorization and formulas, this approach is all about understanding why math works. Schools want students to be more flexible thinkers, solving problems in different ways and truly grasping the concepts behind the numbers.

While it can seem confusing at first, the goal is to build stronger problem-solving skills that go beyond simply getting the right answer.

Tip 1: Ask Your Child to Explain Their Thinking

One of the best ways to support your child with new math is to ask them to explain their thought process. Even if the method seems unfamiliar to you, hearing your child describe it can give you insight into what they’re learning.

Instead of jumping straight into solving the problem for them, try asking questions like:

• "Can you tell me how you’re thinking about this problem?"

• "What did your teacher say about this method?"

This not only helps your child articulate their understanding but also encourages them to think critically about the math they’re doing. Plus, it turns homework into a learning conversation, not just a task to complete.

Tip 2: Use Online Resources to Your Advantage

Feeling stuck? You’re not alone! The good news is there are tons of resources to help both parents and students understand new math methods. Websites like Khan Academy offer step-by-step explanations that break down even the most complex math strategies.

Many schools also provide parent-friendly guides or online portals that show how certain math concepts are being taught in class. Don’t hesitate to dive into these resources—you’ll be surprised how quickly you can catch on!

Tip 3: Don’t Be Afraid to Talk to the Teacher

If you’re feeling lost, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher. They’re used to helping parents get familiar with new math strategies and can provide you with extra materials, tips, or even just reassurance.

Ask the teacher for clarification on methods you don’t understand, or request extra practice sheets to go over with your child at home. Teachers are a great resource, and they’re more than willing to help parents stay in the loop.

Tip 4: Focus on Understanding Concepts Over Procedures

It’s easy to get caught up in the different methods being used, but remember—the goal of new math is to help your child understand the concepts behind the math. You don’t need to know every method or memorize every new strategy. Instead, focus on helping your child grasp what the numbers represent and how they connect.

Ask questions like:

• "What does this number mean in the problem?"

• "Why do you think this strategy works?"

By focusing on the concepts, you’ll help your child build a deeper understanding, which is what new math is all about.

Tip 5: Practice Patience Together

It’s normal for both parents and kids to feel frustrated when facing unfamiliar math methods. Be patient with yourself and your child. Learning new things takes time, but it can also be a great bonding experience. You’re both developing problem-solving skills, and that’s something worth celebrating!

Encourage your child and remind them (and yourself) that it’s okay to not get it right the first time. With persistence, they’ll start to feel more comfortable with the new methods—and so will you!

Final Thoughts: Encouragement for Parents

New math might feel foreign, but you don’t need to master it to help your child. By staying involved, asking questions, and using available resources, you can help them succeed. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer—it’s about learning to think in new and creative ways.

So, take a deep breath, dive in, and know that you can help your child with new math. You’ve got this!