Mathematics News 

Encouraging a Positive Mindset in Mathematics

Dear Parents,

One of the most important lessons we can teach our children is that mistakes are a natural and valuable part of learning—especially when it comes to mathematics. Many students feel discouraged when they don’t get the right answer immediately, but embracing mistakes can lead to deeper understanding and greater success in the long run.

Here’s how you can help foster a positive, growth-oriented mindset in your child:

Normalise Mistakes as Learning Opportunities

Children often feel frustrated or embarrassed when they make mistakes in mathematics, but it’s important to remind them that everyone makes errors—this is how we grow. When your child encounters a difficult problem, encourage them to view it as a challenge to be solved, rather than something to fear. By reframing mistakes as learning opportunities, you can help them build resilience and persistence.

Encourage Problem-Solving and Exploration

When your child makes a mistake, instead of focusing on the error, ask questions that prompt reflection and problem-solving, such as:

• “What did you try here?”
• “Can you explain your thinking?”
• “What could you do differently next time?”

These types of questions help children understand that the process of finding a solution is just as important as the final answer. Encourage them to try different approaches until they find one that works.

Praise Effort, Not Just Correct Answers

Praising your child for their hard work and perseverance helps them 

understand that effort leads to improvement.

       Instead of saying “You’re so smart,” try phrases like:

• “I love how you didn’t give up on that tricky problem.”
• “You worked really hard on this, and it shows!”
• “Great job trying different strategies.”

By focusing on effort and the process, you help your child see that mathematics success is not about being naturally good at it, but about working hard and learning from challenges.

Share Your Own Experiences

It can be powerful for children to hear about times when you made mistakes and learned from them—whether in mathematics or other areas of life. Sharing personal stories of overcoming difficulties helps normalise the idea that no one is perfect and that making mistakes is just part of growing.

Emphasis a Growth Mindset

The concept of a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and learning—is crucial to building confidence in mathematics. Remind your child that their brain is like a muscle that gets stronger with practice. Every time they tackle a difficult problem or correct a mistake, they are getting smarter.

A Partnership for Success

As parents and educators, we want to work together to help our students develop confidence and resilience in mathematics. By encouraging a positive mindset and embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, we are helping our children build a foundation for long-term success—not just in mathematics, but in all areas of life.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and let’s continue to celebrate every step of progress, no matter how big or small.

Warm regards,

Ms Nellie Girgenti

Coordinator  and Year 4 teacher