How Can I Help My Child with Online Maths Tuition?

30/07/2024 / Maths Tutoring

Helping your child excel in maths can be challenging, especially with the shift to online learning.

In the UK, parents are increasingly turning to online maths tuition to support their children’s education.

Principal Tutors offers award-winning online maths tuition here in the UK, so join our experts for practical advice on how best you can help your child get the most out of each session.

First, we will find out the short answer before we get the details.

To help your child with online math lessons, set up a quiet place for them to work. Check their assignments regularly, encourage them, and talk about any problems they have. Use online tools and keep in touch with their teacher for extra help.

Understanding Online Maths Tuition

Online maths tuition involves teaching and learning maths through digital platforms. It offers flexibility and access to a wide range of resources, making it an appealing option for many families.

To make the most of online tuition, parents need to play an active role.

Setting Up a Productive Learning Environment

A quiet and comfortable learning environment helps to get the most out of online maths sessions. 

According to Studymind,

“Establishing a separate study area minimises distractions, allowing your child to concentrate solely on their schoolwork. A designated space helps reduce interruptions, creating a focused learning environment.”

So here are some tips from our online maths tutors on how to create the best study space for your child.

• Designate a Specific Study Area: Choose a quiet, well-lit area with minimal distractions. This helps your child focus during tuition sessions.

• Ensure Good Internet Connectivity: Reliable internet is essential for uninterrupted lessons. Position the router centrally in your home or use an ethernet connection if possible.

• Equip with Necessary Tools: Provide a computer or tablet, headphones, and any other required materials like notebooks and stationery.

Choosing the Right Online Maths Tutor

Selecting the right tutor is one of the most important steps to ensure your child’s success in maths.

Principal Tutors offers experienced and qualified tutors who are vetted and matched to your child’s needs.

When choosing a tutor, consider:

• Qualifications and Experience: Ensure the tutor has the relevant qualifications and experience in teaching maths at your child’s level.

• Teaching Style: According to experts, one single approach to teaching does not work for every student or even for most students. Look for awareness of the various learning styles of students and for tutors to match these styles.

• Reviews and References: Look for reviews from other parents and ask for references to ensure the tutor’s credibility.

Read more in our other helpful guide How To Assess A Tutor For Your Child

Supporting Your Child During Online Tuition

Your involvement can greatly influence your child’s learning outcome. Here are ways to support your child:

• Be Present: Sit with your child during the first few sessions to understand the tutor’s approach and help your child settle in.

• Encourage Open Communication: Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing any difficulties or concerns with the tutor.

• Monitor Progress: Regularly check your child’s progress and discuss it with the tutor. This helps identify areas that need more focus.

Creating a Routine

Consistency is crucial for effective learning. A good routine can help children develop good study habits.

Here are a few of our best tips.

• Set a Schedule: Establish a fixed time for online tuition and stick to it. This helps your child get into the habit of studying regularly.

• Include Breaks: Ensure your child takes short breaks to avoid burnout. A 5-10 minute break every hour can help maintain focus and productivity.

• Balance with Other Activities: Incorporate time for extracurricular activities and relaxation to keep your child engaged and motivated.

• Online Resources: Online maths tuition provides access to numerous resources that can enhance learning. Here are some useful tools:

• Educational Websites: Sites like BBC Bitesize  offer interactive lessons and exercises tailored to different levels.

• Maths Apps: Apps such as MyMaths and Mathletics provide engaging ways for children to practice maths skills.

• Virtual Manipulatives: Tools like virtual abacuses and number lines can help visual learners grasp mathematical concepts better.

Encouraging a Positive Attitude Towards Maths

A positive attitude towards maths can significantly impact your child’s performance.

According to Sussex University children who enjoy maths are more likely to excel.

• Make Maths Fun: Use games and puzzles to make learning enjoyable. This can help reduce anxiety and create a love for maths.

• Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s progress, no matter how small. This boosts confidence and motivation.

• Show real-world applications: Demonstrate how maths is used in everyday life, such as in cooking or shopping, to make it more relatable.

Addressing Challenges

Online learning can come with its own set of challenges. Here’s how to address some common issues:

• Technical Difficulties: Ensure your child knows how to use the online platform and troubleshoot common issues. Have a backup plan, such as an alternative device, in case of technical problems.

• Maintaining Focus: If your child struggles to stay focused, break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and use timers to keep them on track.

• Lack of Motivation: Set achievable goals and rewards to keep your child motivated. Discuss any concerns with the tutor for additional support.

Communicating with the Tutor

Effective communication is essential for your child’s success.

Here at Principal Tutors, all our online maths tutors understand the importance of regular updates and feedback.

Here’s how to maintain good communication:

• Schedule Regular Meetings: Arrange periodic meetings with the tutor to discuss your child’s progress and any concerns.

• Provide Feedback: Share your observations and feedback with the tutor to help them tailor their teaching approach.

• Be Open to Suggestions: Be receptive to the tutor’s recommendations and work together to support your child’s learning journey.

Evaluating Progress

Regular evaluation helps track your child’s improvement and identify areas needing more focus.

According to Ofsted, continuous assessment is key to academic success. Here’s how to evaluate progress:

• Review Homework and Tests: Regularly check your child’s homework and test results to monitor their understanding and performance.

• Set Milestones: Establish short-term and long-term goals with the tutor and celebrate when your child achieves them.

• Seek Feedback: Ask the tutor for detailed feedback on your child’s strengths and areas for improvement.

How Can I Help My Child with Online Maths Tuition? – Final Thoughts

As we’ve discovered today in our latest blog, parental involvement is important in the effectiveness of online maths tuition.

By staying engaged and proactive, you can help your child thrive academically and develop a lifelong love for maths.

All our online maths tutors at Principal Tutors are fully qualified teachers. This means your child receives high-quality tuition from trained professionals.

Request a tutor and help your child develop a lifelong love of learning.