Why Does Math Matter?

Do children need more than a standard mathematical education? If a child is not interested in a STEM major or career – does math really matter?

We've received this question numerous times over the years, as the concept of extra math classes or an after school math program can be surprising to some. We're here to share our thoughts.

1. Math matters because thinking matters. Think about other extracurriculars, like sports or music. Lots of children play soccer or take piano lessons, even if that won't go on to be part of their future career. Why? Because participating in these activities develops a healthy foundation in ability and habit and allows children to learn new skills. Once these children grow into adults, even those who were not athletically or musically inclined will have this foundation to fall back on.

The ability to think well – critically, logically, and creatively – varies from person to person. It's an ability that is highly sought after, regardless of profession and math happens to be the best tool humans currently have with which to develop the mind and the ability to think.

2. Math matters because a child's potential isn't determined at birth. Sometimes we will hear from parents, " my child just isn't a math person." We would say to those who feel that way: struggling is not akin to lack of ability. Rather, this can reflect that the subject wasn't properly introduced.

Young children are capable of abstract reasoning and higher-order thinking, much more so than their older peers, so starting early matters (as it does with language or playing an instrument). When an elementary school student is introduced to mathematics and algebra early, research has shown that their brain function actually changes. Their cognitive development is pushed forward.

We continue to see this phenomenon nearly thirty years and thousands of students later. Many children who came in needing math help come out math stars. It's why our mantra is that there's no such thing as a math person. No child's potential is predetermined.

3. Math matters because it's fun! While not everyone has a fun experience with math as a child, we strive to change that narrative. For many people, math was taught as a series of unconnected facts, to be memorized through grit. 

But that's not mathematics. Math is a language, a lens through which to understand the world. Any classroom in which math is taught this way is alive. RSM classrooms often contain students loudly debating, collaborating with their peers, and excitedly answering their teacher's question. 

Being in this kind of environment is contagious – children catch on to a love of learning that stays with them throughout their lives.

This blog was originally published in 2016 and has since been updated.