If your child dreads maths lessons it may be a sign they need extra support: Here’s how to help them

For some, heading back to school at this time of year brings excitement; but for others, that one subject - maths - can feel like a hurdle that grows bigger and harder to tackle with each passing term.

How do you know if your child needs extra help?

According to René Scholtz, Centre Owner at Mathnasium Milton Keynes, the signs are often there – comments about hating maths, struggles with homework, or feedback from teachers and exam results.

He says the key to overcoming the lack of confidence in maths lies in personalised support - and to act early.

Mathnasium is a maths-only tuition provider in Milton Keynes supporting students from Year 1 through to GCSE level with one-to-one support.

What makes the programme special is its bespoke approach.

René says: “Maths is often thought of as something you either ‘get’ or you don’t. But the truth is that every child can do maths.

“What many students dislike is not the subject itself, but the frustration and anxiety that come with not understanding it.

Free assessment and tailored learning plan

When parents approach Mathnasium for support, every child completes a free initial assessment designed to pinpoint both strengths and gaps in their knowledge.

From there, the team creates a tailored learning plan that builds strong foundations while supporting, and developing, at each child’s individual pace.

At the Milton Keynes centre at Broughton Gate, most students attend two to three times per week, with 1:1 tuition from trained instructors. Online tuition is also available.

Instructors are chosen not only for their maths expertise but also for their ability to engage with children of all ages.

If a young person is struggling with maths, it is never too soon to start the extra tuition that Mathnasium offers.

René says: “It’s always best to get out ahead of the problem.

“If you’re thinking ahead to exams, don’t leave it until January, February, and then only have three months to try to catch up. The more time we have to work with the student and build their confidence and capability, the better it is for them.”

He compares building maths skills to building a wall. René adds: “If you don’t have those foundations in place, if you’re missing a few bricks at the bottom, it becomes increasingly difficult to build on it.

“The earlier in a child’s school career - not just the school year - that you’re able to find those knowledge gaps and plug them, the easier it will be for the students going forward.

“If the foundation isn’t solid, everything built on top becomes shaky. By finding and filling those gaps early, we make the learning journey smoother and more enjoyable.”

How to get in touch with Mathnasium

Sessions can be face-to-face at Mathnasium’s centre Unit 13a Bodmin Place, Broughton Gate, Milton Keynes, BUC MK10 7DP – or online if you don’t live nearby.

They are open Monday to Thursday, 3.30pm-7.30pm, or Saturday, 10am-2pm.

To book or find out more, visit the website.

Or email [email protected] or call 01908 990 005.