The Math Crisis

Why do US kids perform significantly lower on math proficiency tests than kids in other countries? Parents need to work with the community to close this significant gap.

What You Need To Know

Since the 1990s, US educators have implemented changes to the math curriculum to increase kids’ knowledge of basic concepts and application of that information to real-world situations. But parents and other cultural influences need to bolster attempts to reframe the role of math in kids’ lives and create an environment where all kids can become math experts.

How You Can Help

National organizations want parents to help raise expectations about math achievement and dampen the negative attitudes about math abilities.

1. Stereotypes. Actively counter generalized images of kids who are good at math. For example, when a popular kids’ television show includes the stock nerd character—really uncool, smart boy with glasses and a pocket protector—compare the portrayal to the real kids at school who are top math students.
2. Positive attitudes. “I can’t do this!” Call on unique resources for helping your kids’ master math homework. Try a study group to leverage the multiple ways of attacking the. Or find a retired math teacher who might work with your kid or the study.
3. Faith. Express your unwavering belief in your kids’ math abilities whenever you can. Use appropriate expressions of physical affection to emphasize your support. Slip encouraging notes into their math books. Text them a cheerleading phrase just before math class.