Many children find maths challenging, which can leave them feeling frustrated or unsure. However, with the right support, they can develop confidence and even start to enjoy the subject! Building confidence in maths is about helping them see that mistakes are part of learning and that practice leads to improvement.

Here are some simple and effective ways to support your child’s maths journey, along with inspiring stories of people who struggled at first but later excelled.

One of the most powerful ways to build your child’s confidence in maths is by fostering a growth mindset—the belief that their abilities can improve with effort and practice.

Even Albert Einstein struggled with school as a child. He found traditional learning difficult but later excelled by thinking differently and focusing on understanding concepts in his own way. Remind your child that mistakes don’t mean failure—they’re simply steps towards mastery.

Every little achievement matters! Whether your child solves a problem independently or finally understands long division, acknowledge their progress.

Famous author Lewis Carroll, who later taught maths, struggled with the subject in his youth. But through perseverance, he became skilled in it. Help your child focus on their progress, no matter how small, and encourage them to keep going.

Related blog: Encouragement in Maths: Why It Matters and 5 Ways to Do It Right

Maths doesn’t have to feel like homework all the time. Learning through games can make a huge difference in how children perceive the subject.

Mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani, the first woman to win the prestigious Fields Medal, initially found maths boring. However, when she started engaging with puzzles and patterns, she became fascinated.

Introduce your child to interactive maths games on platforms like Kahoot, Blooket, or Mathletics to spark their interest. If you’d like more ideas on making maths fun, check out our post on engaging maths activities.

Confidence grows with consistent practice. Regular exposure to maths helps children develop a sense of security and familiarity with the subject.

Actor and comedian Eddie Izzard once said he struggled with maths at school but eventually gained confidence by studying a little every day. Encourage your child to have a daily or weekly maths routine—whether it’s a short review session, solving puzzles, or practising mental maths.

For tips on structuring a good learning routine at home, visit our home education resource page.

A well-equipped learning environment can prevent frustration and keep children focused. Ensure they have essential resources such as:

• A calculator

• Paper and pencils

• A quiet, comfortable workspace

Even renowned physicist Richard Feynman found maths challenging at first and relied on specific tools and visual aids to grasp difficult concepts. With the right resources, he eventually became one of the most celebrated minds in science.

For more guidance on setting up an effective learning space, check out our guide on online maths tutoring prep.

Building confidence isn’t just about getting the right answers—it’s about learning how to approach problems.

Science communicator Carl Sagan admitted that he didn’t enjoy maths at first, but when he started appreciating the problem-solving process, he became more engaged. Encourage your child to focus on how they solve problems rather than just whether they’re correct. This shift in perspective can reduce anxiety and make learning more enjoyable.

Confidence in maths doesn’t happen overnight. Share real-life stories of people who struggled but didn’t give up.

Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer, faced many challenges in her early studies. However, through patience and perseverance, she developed a love for mathematics and computing. Let your child know that maths is a journey, and with time, they will improve.

Helping your child feel stronger in maths is all about encouragement, consistency, and making learning enjoyable. By celebrating progress, incorporating fun activities, and sharing inspiring stories, you can help them build a positive relationship with maths.

For more tools and ideas, check out National Numeracy, a fantastic resource for supporting maths confidence at home.