How can parents support their students in Math? - McDonogh School

How can parents support their students in Math?

Posted by Kristy Lundstrom, Head of Middle School on November 23, 2020

We value parents as partners in our goal of supporting every student as they work to their potential.

One way to ensure a coordinated system of support is to communicate clearly and often with parents. When parents are informed, they can engage with their children about what they are learning, ask specific questions, and support them when needed.

One example of how we do this is in grade 6 math when we share a letter with parents explaining what is going to be studied in upcoming lessons. A typical letter might look like this:

This letter references our online math resources and where families can find further details about upcoming topics. The letter also includes home activities that can help the students see everyday applications of what they are learning. This keeps the learning real and relevant.

Obviously, this letter is only the start of a conversation. However, when the parents have the information, they can engage more fully in their child’s struggles and triumphs. It also empowers the student to tell the rest of the story - how they are doing, how they feel, and what further support they might need.

 

About the Blog

Learning in the Middle focuses on all things Middle School at McDonogh--organization and structure, themes, instructional design, activities, visible teaching and learning, character development, joy in the everyday, and more! We highlight the challenges and brainstorm ways to meet them, and we celebrate the successes and share ideas for further development. 

Follow @mcdonoghmiddle on Twitter for new blog posts every other Monday. If you have an idea or question, email Head of Middle School Kristy Lundstrom at klundstrom@mcdonogh.org.