One thing I quickly observed is how uncomfortable some of our students are with struggle; how quickly they give up and declare that they can't do it. Despite having worked hard the first few weeks to establish a safe and caring culture, where students are free to make mistakes, it is evident that this is something I really need to demonstrate and put into practice with our students. I often try to remind them that if they gave up trying to walk the first time they fell down, they would all still be crawling today, and that would be pretty silly. It is so, so important for students to understand that not everything is easy the first time (or the second, or the third...) they try something new. Mistakes are part of learning and are essential for developing new understanding. To remind them, some of the quotes we have up in the class include:
-I've learned so much from my mistakes... I'm thinking of making a few more.
-Mistakes are proof that you are trying.
-Learning is not easy- Embrace, Struggle, Grow.
and
-The biggest mistake that you can make is "not trying".
This all being said, there are ways outside of the classroom that parents can help support their children in math without revisiting concepts that cause them stress in the classroom. Take a look at this terrific graphic I was given by a colleague this weekend:
Have a great week!
