Math Without Meltdowns: Building Strong Foundations for Your Child

February 24, 2025

Math can be a tough subject for many children, and as a parent, it can be heartbreaking to see your child struggle with math and begin to dislike school as a result. If homework turns into a daily battle or your child avoids anything math-related, you’re not alone. Many children face difficulties with math, not because they aren’t capable, but because they need a stronger foundation in numeration—the ability to understand numbers, their relationships, and how they work together.

Why Numeration Matters

Numeration is the backbone of all mathematical understanding.

It helps children:

• Recognize and work with numbers confidently
• Understand place value and number relationships
• Develop number sense, which allows for problem-solving and mental math
• Gain confidence that will carry over into more advanced math concepts later on
• Numeration is the foundation that you build on – it gives you an understanding of the system of numbers that helps with the retention of facts so in-class curriculum work develops appropriately and the student becomes fluent in math

Without a strong grasp of numeration, children attempt to rely on memorization and when that is overhwhelmed they may feel lost as they move into higher grades. This will lead to frustration, avoidance of math tasks, and even a belief that they are simply “bad at math.” Fortunately, Numeration and computational fluency, are skills that can be developed with the right approach and support.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling

Recognizing the early signs of math difficulties can help parents take proactive steps. Some common indicators include:

• Difficulty recognizing numbers or counting consistently
• Trouble understanding place value (e.g., why 12 is different from 21)
• Struggles with basic addition and subtraction or retaining times tables
• Confusion when working with patterns, sequences, or number order
• Avoidance of math-related tasks or expressing frustration when dealing with numbers
• A general lack of understanding of how things should be done

If any of these sound familiar, your child might benefit from explicit instruction. Strengthening these early math skills can make a significant difference in a child’s overall confidence and success in school. Doing so early, when possible, creates momentum over time which is reflected in their performance, confidence and overall sense of self. 

How Novaread Helps Build Strong Foundations that Lead to Success in Math

At Novaread, we specialize in building strong math foundations so that children can feel confident in their math abilities. To achieve this, we use the On Cloud Nine math program, a research-based program developed by Lindamood-Bell. 

On Cloud Nine focuses on:

• Using imagery and visualization – Helping children create mental representations of numbers and math concepts.
• Strengthening number sense – Developing an intuitive understanding of numbers and their relationships.
• Bridging the gap between abstract numbers and real-world meaning – Ensuring that students truly comprehend math rather than just memorizing procedures.
• Boosting confidence and problem-solving skills – Giving children tools to approach math with greater independence.

We’ve seen time and time again how On Cloud Nine transforms a child’s experience with math. With the right support, children who once avoided math can become more confident, engaged, and even enjoy the subject.

There’s Hope for Every Child

If your child is struggling with math, there is often an identifiable reason—one that can be uncovered through a brief assessment. The good news is that with the right support, there are effective programs available to help.

Math difficulties do not define intelligence or potential. With the right guidance, every child can build confidence in their abilities and experience success.

At Novaread, we are committed to helping children achieve success while developing a positive sense of self. Through the On Cloud Nine program, we provide targeted support to strengthen math skills in a way that makes sense to each child.

If you’re looking for a solution that works, we’d love to connect and find the right approach for your child.

Let’s build a strong math foundation together!