The Hidden Way Parents Shape Their Child’s Maths Confidence

Let’s be honest—when you hear the word “maths”, what’s your gut reaction?

If it makes you feel a little uncomfortable, anxious, or brings back awkward classroom memories… you’re not alone. Many of us were raised to believe we weren’t “maths people.” We struggled, felt stuck, or even avoided it altogether.

But here’s something important that we often forget:

The way we feel and talk about maths can directly shape how our children experience it too.

Not just through our words—but through our energy. Our reactions. Our sighs at homework time. Even comments like “I was never good at maths either” can send powerful messages:

• “This is hard.”

• “You probably won’t be good at this.”

• “Maths is scary.”

These messages don’t build confidence—they quietly chip away at it.

One Simple Moment That Changed Everything

Recently, I was working with a learner who was completely stuck on what seemed like a basic addition question:
6 + 9 = ?

They had counters in front of them to help, but nothing was clicking. They were frustrated and starting to shut down.

I quickly grabbed a bowl and gently said, “Let’s put 6 counters in the bowl… now add 9 more.” They dropped them in. Then I asked, “What do we have now?”

We tipped them out and counted together.
Their face lit up. That was the moment it all made sense.

What felt abstract became real. The concept of “adding” was no longer just numbers on a page—it became a meaningful experience.