Looking for ways to help your child's school build a better math program? These eight tips might help.
- Identify the book and program your schools use. Ask for research that proves its effectiveness. Why did the district choose this program? Will it soon be up for review?
- How often is math taught? (It should be every day.) Is there a balance of hands-on math and skill practice? Do they wait to introduce new skills until old ones are learned?
- How is the student's homework used? It should be for review and practice, not brand new lessons that require a lot of help from parents.
- Compare your child’s program with those of other districts.
- Learn all you can about what kids need to know to be prepared for the future and about the best ways to teach mathematics.
- Open the lines of parent teacher communication by volunteering to help in the classroom with hands-on activities. Show the teacher you care about what goes on in the classroom and ask how you can help.
- Suggest a speaker to tell the class how math and science are used every day.
- Get involved in the planning of math/science learning activities for your school or district, including Family Math and Science Nights.
Source: Parent Power, "Center for Education Reform," August, 1999, Vol. 1, Issue 4. And Math + Science + Parents = Your Child’s Success, Michigan Statewide Systemic Initiative and the Michigan Mathematics and Science Centers Network, 1998.