Starting extra supports early in the year to prevent failing in math is crucial to student’s self-esteem, as well as consistent progress and success.
Even one hour a week of targeted extra practice, focused specifically on the concepts the student is struggling with, could make a huge difference.
Middle school students usually require help with determining what exactly they should be working on and what the format of their learning should be. Thus, adults can help them establish and maintain routine, as well as provide resources that are concise, clear and well structured. One such resource is www.intomath.org
Unfortunately, many parents do not recognize the importance of the consistent targeted daily practice outside of school hours and end up signing their kids up for some expensive tutoring sessions only when it is already almost or too late in the semester/year.
The most optimal approach is to determine how the student feels about math (usually they know ahead of time or as early as one week into the new school year) and discuss options that would help the student stay on top of their learning and not fall behind.
The point of no return should simply not even be an option.
