A new study reveals that parents who experience anxiety about mathematics may unintentionally hinder their children's early numeracy development, leading to long-term academic consequences. The research highlights the importance of parental support in fostering children's confidence and skills in mathematics.
Parents who experience anxiety related to mathematics may unintentionally hinder their child's early development of numeracy skills , ultimately affecting their academic performance , according to researchers. A recent study found that parental math anxiety can inadvertently influence a child's ability to cultivate strong numeracy skills , an effect that may persist as the child progresses through their education.
Researchers from Loughborough University and three Italian universities followed nearly 130 children over a five-year period, starting when the children were three years old. They evaluated parental math anxiety at the outset and tracked the children's mathematical development up to the age of eight. The study revealed that while children may not necessarily internalize their parents' anxiety, they tend to exhibit weaker numeracy skills if their parents feel apprehensive about mathematics. Dr. Kinga Morsanyi, an expert in mathematical cognition at Loughborough University, explained: 'Our findings demonstrate that parental math anxiety does have an impact on children's mathematics outcomes, even when considering differences in parental education. The study found that children whose parents reported experiencing anxiety about mathematics at age three displayed weaker early numeracy skills. By the age of eight, those same children continued to perform less effectively in mathematics compared to their peers whose parents felt more confident with numbers. Early numeracy skills are a crucial predictor of academic success, influencing future career prospects, earning potential, and even long-term mental and physical well-being. The researchers hope their findings emphasize the need for parental support initiatives designed to boost both children's and parents' confidence in mathematics. For parents concerned about their own math anxiety, Dr. Morsanyi suggests that small adjustments in attitude and language can make a significant difference. One simple yet powerful step parents can take is to speak more positively about mathematics and acknowledge that a special talent in mathematics is not a prerequisite for learning it. She adds that even if parents struggle with numbers, demonstrating interest, enthusiasm, and encouragement can support their children's learning. For parents looking to enhance their own confidence, Dr. Morsanyi recommends exploring adult numeracy classes or utilizing free online resources. She also suggests adopting a 'growth mindset' – recognizing that making mistakes in mathematics is an inherent part of the learning process. The study, conducted with children in Italy – where school begins at age six – has prompted researchers to investigate how these findings apply across various countries. They are also exploring the early origins of math anxiety and the role parents play in shaping their children's mathematical development. For now, the key takeaway is clear: a positive attitude towards mathematics at home can set children on a path toward long-term success
Parental Anxiety Math Anxiety Numeracy Skills Children's Development Academic Performance
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