How do you deal with the resistant learner? The one that has made the decision they are terrible at math?

I am suffering the same problem with my youngest. Her 3 older brothers are all good at Math and she feels "dumb" because she can't get the answer as quickly as her next oldest brother.

So I feel your pain. What I am trying to do is find small things she can be successful at to help slowly build back up her confidence. I also made it into "secret training" that no one else can know about so she doesn't have to worry about being embarrassed in front of her brothers. We shall see how this goes.

How do i deal with the resistant learner?

In my experience, seems like every challenge for us (not just for a child), in the very beginning has certain resistance.

Related to my daughters: for the 8 years old girl; it is kind of quick for her to listen when the resistance appears, we have learn together, observing together when the resistance appears (through tales also), i give her space and time to be with, then naturally her mood changes. She starts to laugh or stop crying, some times she got slept and after that resistance moment energy comes up¡

With the 5 years old girl, it is a little more difficult in the sense that her reactions are very strong, even when she plays and laugh, she has a kind of volcano inside, she needs much more time ( cause the age too), this challenge me a lot¡

Any way, time, space, tales and love are the key.

Thanks

Irene

Hi,

I would clarify the reason why 'the resistant learner' has made this decision. Most likely it relates to the way how school deals with the math. Children do miss a lot in science just because the teachers are not motivated and good enough to show the real beauty of math and science.

I would describe a couple of fascinating examples to start with, such as symmetric patterns which you can easily find in Maria and Julia's book 'Moebius Noodles',( I am enjoying the book though I think it should include observations of children behavior when doing these activities so inexperienced teacher can at least prepare for some reaction though you never know! )

Just find some time when no rush for you and child, and start explaining things how You see them, your own understanding with lots of example will make them listen. It is like a bet time story if you wish:))