Mathematics remains one of the leading sources of frustration for many students today. When it comes to mathematics, the truth is that some students love it and excel at it, and some, maybe more, students find themselves constantly frustrated by it.
If you need help convincing your child of the importance of math, this article aims to provide a few talking points on how having a solid understanding of math can help you later in life.
Helps with managing finances later in life
This is undeniably one of the most important life skills. Even if your child doesn’t grow up to be a banker, it’s important that kids learn how to create and balance a personal budget, and how to understand investing and saving. In fact, studies show that those who understand simple mathematical principles are less likely to live paycheck to paycheck, or go into serious debt.
Improves problem solving skills and teaches risk management
Whether your child grows up to be a hedge fund manager, a cashier, or small business owner, it’s important to understand that math will play a role in any career, since it strengthens reasoning and logic.
It can be difficult to demonstrate to children that parallels exist between solving an equation in a book and solving a problem in real life. To start, try to find moments to challenge them mathematically everyday for instance, at the grocery store when they ask for their favourite cereal, or when they want a new pair of shoes.
Helps you be a better baker
Does your child express an interest in baking or cooking? Without a solid understanding of units of measurement or being able to convert between imperial and metric, culinary creations might be less than appealing. Baking or cooking with an adult is a great way for them to learn about measurements, and also to see first-hand how important it is to know how to measure ingredients.
Helps you spot a good shopping deal
Is it better to get one item at 70 percent off, or is it better to opt for the “buy two, get one free” deal? For those who can do simple arithmetic in their heads and on the fly, knowing what deal is best comes easily. Without knowing how percentages work, how will your child know if the correct discount is applied to the purchase?
Understand how things like banking, credit cards and mortgages work
For the mathematically uninformed, some financial products (like credit cards) might seem like a good idea; and they can be. But if used without understanding of interest, cash advance fees and what the various percentages mean, it will cost a great deal more in the long run.
No matter how you count it up, an understanding of mathematics is beneficial to your child’s future. Taking the time to understand this powerful subject while your child is still in school is definitely worthwhile. If your child is having trouble grasping some of the concepts on his or her own, consider enlisting the aid of a math tutor to help.