Can Tutoring Help with Math or Is There a Better Solution? Math can be a tough subject for anyone. But whether your student is college-aged or starting elementary school, it’s never too late for them to build their math skills! At LearningRx, we know that tutoring isn’t the one and only option for getting math help—so let’s explore why and how brain training can have an impact. First of all, what is brain training? It’s a dynamic, engaging form of one-on-one learning support that’s tailored to each learner. The underlying concept is similar to personal training: in the same way that personal training works on strengthening muscle groups, brain training targets specific cognitive skills. As students advance in their cognitive abilities, they can become more confident thinkers and learners! So how does that apply to math—and which option is better for your student, brain training or tutoring? We’ll review your choices in more detail below. Identifying Math Challenges and Math Help 3 Common Math Challenges Different forms of math help can benefit different learners—and knowing your student’s specific challenges can help you assess options like brain training and tutoring. With that in mind, here are a few reasons that learners often struggle with math: Falling behind on skills and concepts. Math is one subject that relies on progressive learning. For example, students must be able to identify numbers before they can tackle simple equations. If a student falls behind in one area, it can make math that much more difficult to understand. Feeling overwhelmed. Math has a reputation for being a “tough” subject—so it’s easy for students to feel discouraged before they even start learning. Many learners struggle to ask for help or admit they need support. They may also simply believe that math is an insurmountable subject for them. Dealing with a learning difference. Many subjects can be an uphill battle with a learning difference, and that includes math. Students may have difficulty focusing on the topic, or may struggle to absorb concepts. In these situations, having the right one-on-one support is essential. Let’s take a look at how one-on-one brain training works, and how it differs from tutoring. Building A Foundation of Math Skills At LearningRx, we help students of all ages work on tackling math with confidence. Through one-on-one math help programs, we work on building a foundation of key mathematical concepts, including: Learning to think in quantities, numbers, and amounts Fluency with math calculations Analytical skills for reading and solving math problems At the same time, we emphasize honing specific cognitive skills related to math, including logic and reasoning, memory, and attention skills. Because our programs are informed by the challenges faced by each learner, as well as those areas where they excel, we can take a dynamic, strength-based approach for every single student! For kids, teens, and adults, we’re dedicated to helping our clients unlock their unique learning potential. Tutoring vs. One-On-One Brain Training: Understanding the Difference We’re often asked: what’s the difference between tutoring and brain training? In most cases, tutoring focuses on teaching specific materials. It’s often a similar set-up to learning a lesson in class but delivered in a one-on-one format. For students who lack the underlying skills, struggle with confidence, or have a tough time in the classroom, it’s not always the right approach. Brain training, on the other hand, focuses on the specific cognitive skills required for learning. When students strengthen the way they think, learn, and remember, it can make subjects like math that much less daunting. In the process, we also work on building a practical foundation of math skills and fluency! For learners of all ages who haven’t found success with tutoring, brain training may be the way to go. Choose Brain Training As An Alternative to Math Tutoring Explore brain training as an alternative or addition to math tutoring. To discuss your learner’s needs, contact LearningRx at 866-BRAIN-01, or find your local Brain Training Center online.