Unfortunately, math is usually taught without attention to this basic detail. With a proper approach, math is not only easy to understand, but can also be a lot of fun. A lot of computer games are far more difficult to learn, yet kids pick them up with relish; learning math can benefit from a similar approach.
Math is connected
Everyone understands the connection between math and science. It is also connected to careers in music and art, as well as business (not just finance), journalism, government, and many other areas. Math is also needed in everyday life affairs - try comparison shopping without math.
Math skills can be acquired
By making math fun, it becomes not only easier for kids to learn it, but also more engaging - the idea is to get them to want to play with math. Once they get to that point, the possibilities open up.
My approach is designed to get your child quickly to the point where a tutor is no longer needed.
I have encountered many young teachers on the subway, poring over the teachers' manuals, trying to figure out who designed the curriculum, and for what purpose (it can't be to teach math; the curriculum doesn't accomplish that). Kids aren't taught math in any kind of logical fashion, with new concepts and exercises building on previously learned skills. Instead, the curriculum is disjointed, and kids aren't given the opportunity to "lock in" what was previously taught.
By presenting math in a logical manner, kids not only learn new concepts and skills, they retain them. That's what my tutoring accomplishes.
E-mail me for more information.
Dan Jacoby