My child really struggles to add and subtract numbers, what help can I give them?

Answer 1

When a child struggles with basic addition and subtraction, "giving them more worksheets" usually just increases their anxiety. As an Educational Diagnostician, I look for the specific "gap" in their foundation.

Instead of more drills, I provide

1. Concrete Manipulatives: We use physical blocks or tiles so the child can "see" the math happening. This is part of the CRA (Concrete-Representational-Abstract) sequence that is essential for struggling learners.
2. Language of Math: Sometimes the struggle isn't the numbers, but the words. I teach students to identify "clue words" in story problems that tell them which operation to use.
3. Fact Fluency Games: We replace boring flashcards with engaging games that build "automaticity" without the pressure of a timer.

By Identifying exactly where the breakdown is occurring, we can "patch the hole" in their learning so they are ready for more advanced concepts like multiplication and division.

Answer 2

Using hands-on tools might be a good option to try. Placing any small item, like blocks, beans, or pieces of cereal will help them count the beginning and ending of a problem. This also makes it easier to visualize problems in the future. I hope this helps!

Answer 3

Every child can grow in math with the right support. If your child struggles with addition and subtraction, they may need more than repetition. I use hands-on tools like number lines, base ten blocks, and number bonds to build real number sense. I also teach strategies that reduce anxiety and help facts stick, such as games, patterns, and visual models. I’ve helped many elementary students move from finger counting to confident, flexible thinking. With patient, targeted instruction, your child can thrive too.

Answer 4

Every child learns differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to building math confidence. What helps one child might not click for another, and that’s okay! For some kids, using fingers to count is exactly what they need at first, while others may benefit from turning math into a game, story, or even using something they already love—like Roblox, their favorite TV show, or characters they connect with. The key is discovering what sparks their interest and using that as a bridge to build understanding. I believe in sitting down with each student, getting to know how they think and what excites them, and tailoring our approach from there. Learning works best when it’s engaging, supportive, and—even a little fun!

Answer 5

As a teacher with over 30 years of classroom experience, 10 years of private tutoring, and a specialization in working with children in grades K–8, I’ve helped many students build strong foundational math skills. When a child struggles with addition and subtraction, the key is to meet them where they are, use hands-on methods, and build confidence step by step. Here’s how you can help at home—and how I can support you professionally:

🏠 What You Can Do at Home

1. Use Everyday Math: Count snacks, stairs, toys, or coins. Make math part of daily routines.
2. Play Games: Use dice, number cards, or board games that involve simple math.
3. Use Fingers or Counters: Let your child use fingers, beans, or small toys to show problems.
4. Ask Math Talk Questions: “How did you figure that out?” “Can you show me a different way?”
5. Limit Worksheets: Focus on hands-on activities instead of just paper practice.

🧠 How I Can Help Professionally

1. Assessment First: I offer a personalized math assessment to find specific gaps—whether it’s number sense, fact fluency, or place value.
2. Targeted, Data-Informed Lessons: Based on results, I create individualized tutoring plans focused on what your child needs most.
3. Hands-On Instruction: I teach using the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach:
4. Concrete: Use real objects (counters, base-10 blocks).
5. Pictorial: Draw pictures or use number lines/ten frames.
6. Abstract: Solve equations with numbers and symbols.
7. Multiple Strategies: I teach different ways to add/subtract (counting on, using doubles, making 10) so your child can choose what works best. As a parent , if you would like to sit in on tutoring sessions also to learn these methods you are more than welcome to.

Let’s work together to build confidence and understanding. With the right support and a personalized approach, your child can thrive in math! I’d be happy to begin with an assessment and start a plan that works. Message Michele W. for a free consultation as well as to book tutoring appointments. ( scroll to the bottom of profile to click the message Michele W. button ) . 765 346-0053

Answer 6

I am going to add a bit of a different perspective as I am not an elementary math teacher but I work with high school and college age kids. It is definitely important to understand the concepts of addition and subtraction using manipulatives, pictures, the number line, etc. However at some point, depending on the grade of your child, memorizing the facts becomes a huge factor. I have seen students at the high school level that I can tell are picturing the number line in their heads and which way to move and using their fingers in a hopping motion. Once you get to more complicated math problems, you are asking to add, subtract and multiply many times. Too many times to be picturing the number line. This won't help on the ACT and SAT, they need speed and accuracy.

So once they understand the concept and when your school says it is OK, get them an app and have them practice repetitively until recall of the basics is easy for them.

Answer 7

Totally understandable—addition and subtraction can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right support, your child can absolutely get the hang of it! Start by using visuals like fingers, counters, or number lines so they can actually see what’s happening when they add or subtract. Break problems into small steps and celebrate each little win to build their confidence. I also recommend short, consistent practice sessions and making it fun—games, movement, or story problems work wonders! If you ever want a session focused on building these foundational skills, I’d love to help.

Answer 8

Hi!

Mom, it sounds like you’re doing great! I would say add manipulatives that would interest your child. If your kid loves legos, use them to simulate addition/ subtraction problems. Other examples could be army men, stuffed animals, coins, pom poms, etc.. I have always found that when you bring things that interest the child into a non-preferred or stressful subject, it helps to keep them motivated.

Thanks!

Derick

Answer 9

I had two children that had the same struggle. I ultimately had to use two different solutions since they were very different learners. My extremely kinesthetic child used a number line print out for several years and would move up and down on that page to add and subtract. I originally thought the number line would always be necessary, but after a few years, he was able to do the problems in his head.

For my second child, I used a ten frame and the books Addition Facts That Stick and Subtraction Facts That Stick by Kate Snow. It is a short book that teaches parents how to use a ten frame and has games to reinforce the learning. It can feel frustrating when your child is struggling to learn. Know that they can be successful with the right tools and a little help!