Why Does Math Feel So Tough?

It’s pretty common to see primary kids sigh over a math worksheet, scratching their heads like the answers are hiding somewhere. Why does math feel so hard for them? Let’s look at two big reasons.

First, they’ve moved past the easy stuff from Kindergarten, like counting blocks, and now face trickier ideas—like fractions or patterns. These can feel like a big leap, and if math doesn’t seem real to their everyday life, they might think, “This doesn’t make sense!”

Second, the rules just keep coming. From simple addition in Grade 1 to decimals by Grade 5, each year adds more steps and pressure to get it right. Mistakes can sting, especially when they’re used to getting praise in Kindergarten but now face corrections instead.

The good news? These kids are super curious and ready to learn. With a few easy steps, we can turn math into playtime, not a struggle.

How to Make Math Fun and Practical

Here are three simple ways to help your primary student enjoy math and see how useful it can be.

1. Turn Math into Fun Games

Games are a great way to get kids excited about numbers, even if they think math is boring. The trick is to keep it pressure-free—no grades or “you failed” moments! Always end with a positive note, like:

•  “You did awesome!”
•  “Let’s try to do even better next time!”

Not sure where to start? It’s easier than you think! Here are some ideas:

• Counting Race: Toss toys on the floor and ask, “How many dolls are there?” They’ll count like it’s a game.
• Snack Sharing: Split 12 crackers into three equal groups. They’ll love solving this tasty puzzle.
• Pattern Game: Use beads to make a pattern—“Red, blue, red; what’s next?” They’ll see it as a fun challenge.

2. Show Math in Everyday Life

Ever wondered how to show your child that math isn’t just for school? When kids see math solve real-life problems, they get curious and might even grab their math book on their own!

Math is part of their daily world. Try these activities:

• Game Night Setup: Ask a second grader, “How many chairs do we need for family game night?”
• Cookie Sharing: A third grader can split 10 cookies with two friends—“How many for each?”
• Shopping Challenge: A fifth grader can check if $2 buys three oranges.

Here’s a fun idea: while cleaning up, ask a fourth grader to sort toys into “big” and “small” piles, or have a first grader grab “five books.” They’ll see it’s math they can use—like picking the bigger slice of cake! When math feels real, it becomes a natural part of their day.

3. Cheer Their Effort to Keep It Fun

Imagine your primary students finally getting into math—they’re smiling as they solve problems! But then you see mistakes and say, “These are all wrong!” Uh-oh—that can undo all the progress. Kids pick up on your feelings fast, and frustration can make math feel scary again.

Let’s try a better way. Cheer their effort to keep math joyful:

• Praise the Try: If your second grader adds two numbers and gets it wrong, say, “You’re so close—let’s try again!”
• Focus on Growth: Tell them, “Mistakes are part of learning. Let’s see how we can do better next time.”

Celebrating effort helps them swap “I’ll mess this up” for “I can keep going!” That mindset turns math into an exciting adventure they’re brave to explore, not avoid. A kind word can make a big difference!

At MathConcept Canada, we use this approach in our primary math programs to keep kids motivated and smiling. Learn more about how we make math fun. 

When to Get Extra Help

If your child still finds math tough or gets frustrated, a little extra support can help them stay on track. Our tutors at MathConcept Canada focus on making math fun for young learners, with small group classes for students from Kindergarten to High School across Canada.

We’re here to build your child’s confidence in math. Ready to give them a math boost?