It seems like my child is missing core math abilities like adding and subtracting, etc- will they ever move past this and be able to do more advanced math?
2 Answers By Expert Tutors
Michael H. answered 09/03/24
All levels of undergraduate mathematics and statistics
This is almost entirely a matter of whether your child chooses to learn this kind of thing. Those who want to understand this sort of math can learn it. Those who only want to do what their teachers tell them to so that they get good grades, as opposed to wanting to understand and to acquire skills, sometimes go through life without learning to add, subtract, etc. But those who want to understand can do it.

Stefanie G. answered 08/26/24
Elementary Education degree, certification, 10 years of experience
The short answer is: YES! The long answer: What probably happened is that your child's classroom moved on from some of the basic number sense skills before your child really mastered it. Or, maybe your child has been identified as having a learning disability, and their school team isn't quite sure of how to approach math needs in a systematic and evidence-based way. Either way- there is hope! I am trained in Add+Vantage Math Recovery: a data-based intervention for elementary math skills!
Below is an overview:
Add+VantageMR (AVMR) math interventions are specialized instructional strategies designed to help students develop core math abilities by focusing on foundational concepts and personalized learning. Here’s how AVMR supports students in building essential math skills:
1. Understanding Number Concepts
- AVMR interventions emphasize the development of strong number sense, which is the ability to understand, relate, and connect numbers. This is crucial for performing basic arithmetic operations and for understanding more complex mathematical concepts. By focusing on number concepts, AVMR helps students build a deep understanding of how numbers work, which is essential for all other areas of math.
2. Personalized Learning
- AVMR assessments are used to identify each student's current understanding and areas of need. Based on this assessment, targeted interventions are provided, which are tailored to the individual student's learning level. This personalized approach ensures that each student receives instruction that meets them where they are, helping to close specific gaps in their understanding.
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Dr. Lea T.
Absolutely! Missing core math skills like adding and subtracting is a common issue, and with the right support, your child can definitely progress to more advanced math. It’s important to build a strong foundation first, and that’s exactly what we focus on. By addressing these fundamental skills through tailored and engaging lessons, we can help your child gain confidence and gradually move on to more complex concepts. The key is to approach these skills in a way that makes learning enjoyable and effective. With time and personalized support, your child can overcome these challenges and advance through their math curriculum successfully. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss how we can support your child’s math journey.09/01/24