Math Homework Is Important

Maybe its my spending a few years in parochial schools growing up. It's just that, over thirty years later, I could probably say my multiplication tables in my sleep. I'll never forget Sister Roselaine, Sister Ann Claire, or Mrs Palmer. These teachers, God bless them, drilled those math facts into our heads.

And that's what it takes. Most Japanese and Chinese parents know what it takes for their kids to excel in math.... "practice, practice, practice".

Why? Because math is a tough subject. But anybody can learn it. The best way to learn math is to get a lot of practice. It's sort of like learning to play guitar or piano. You won't be very good until forming the chords becomes second nature.

With math, kids have to learn the basic skills. These basic skills need to be second nature to them. If they are struggling with things like 6 x 8 or what 7 + 9 is, higher math concepts will be difficult to grasp.

Yes, we should make math fun for kids too. But there are no short cuts to make it always easy or fun. It takes practice and work. As teachers and parents we have to make sure our kids are putting the time in. It's better to start them as early as possible getting them use to drilling on math facts.

Good schools and good teachers know its worth the effort in the long and short run.