Math Anxiety: How Tutoring for Math Can Turn Struggle Into Success

A popular joke once made its rounds on social media, poking fun at math word problems: “If you have four pencils, and I have seven apples, how many pancakes will fit on the roof? Purple, because aliens don’t wear hats.” While this is obviously a silly take on mathematics, it also provides insight into something deeper: the frustration and confusion often felt by those with math anxiety.

What is math anxiety?

For many, math anxiety isn’t just about struggling with numbers and word problems. It’s about feeling overwhelmed by excessive negative emotions and intrusive thoughts that make it hard to understand a math lesson, complete an assignment, or study for a test. This anxiety can have a major ripple effect, leading to poor study habits, avoidance of homework, and a downward spiral of confidence and performance.

Luckily, there is hope! One study highlighted the remarkable impact tutoring can have on children with high math anxiety—even influencing their brain activity. High math anxiety activates the brain’s fear circuits, specifically the amygdala. However, this study revealed that kids with high math anxiety who participated in a tutoring program not only improved their math performance but also no longer had their fear circuits activated in brain scans.

Why do students get math anxiety?

Math anxiety can develop for various reasons and is not always related to a student’s math proficiency. For example, a student who hasn’t yet mastered foundational math skills may begin to feel anxious as they struggle to understand more complex math concepts. However, even students with a firm grasp of the basics can experience anxiety—stemming from an “overreaction” to math that makes it difficult for them to apply their skills and knowledge to solve problems. Negative past experiences, stereotypical views of what it takes to be a “math person,” and the pressure to perform well can also cause math anxiety.

Whatever the root cause, these very intense feelings can lead to troubling symptoms, such as:

Increased heart rate
Sweating and clammy hands
Upset stomach
Lightheadedness
Frustration
Trouble concentrating
Panicked feeling
Negative self-talk

Why Overcoming a Fear of Math Matters

Unresolved math anxiety can significantly impact a student’s academic success and future, extending beyond the classroom and affecting their daily life. Research shows that students who experience high math anxiety are less likely to finish graduate school or pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. They may also avoid essential tasks like budgeting, managing finances, and negotiating salaries—skills that can contribute to their overall quality of life.

However, overcoming a fear of math isn’t just about solving problems and working with numbers. It’s about boosting confidence, building critical thinking and problem-solving skills, fostering resilience, and opening doors to an incredible range of career opportunities.

The Role of Tutoring in Conquering Math Anxiety

Math anxiety can be downright frustrating for a kid. Fortunately, tutoring offers the personalized support both you and your child need. This effective intervention not only addresses math anxiety but also boosts confidence, enhances academic performance, and helps develop important skills like study techniques. Here are a few key benefits your child will experience through tutoring:

Building a solid math foundation by addressing gaps and missing knowledge
Personalized learning plan tailored to your child’s pace and learning style
One-to-one instruction, allowing your child to slow down and focus on challenging concepts
Positive reinforcement helping to build your child’s confidence in their math skills
Practice and repetition, giving your child the chance to master key concepts
A supportive learning environment that reduces their feelings of fear and pressure

How does tutoring help students beyond academics?

Tutoring offers far more than just academic support. It also helps build essential skills that carry into adulthood, such as self-motivation, study habits, and time management.

Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

Students grow more confident in their abilities as they progress academically and succeed in their coursework.
Tutors encourage students to take on challenges and approach their coursework with confidence.

Improves Study Habits and Time Management

Studying is a skill that can be improved with practice. Tutors teach students effective study habits, including how to organize and prioritize tasks.
Students learn to break their studying into manageable chunks, making it less overwhelming and more productive.

Encourages a Growth Mindset

Tutors teach students to see mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve rather than as sources of frustration or discouragement.
Tutoring builds resilience by teaching students to persevere and approach difficult subjects with a positive attitude.

Choosing the Right Math Tutor

Finding a great tutor goes beyond simply hiring someone with strong mathematical knowledge. A truly great tutor is patient, adaptable, and able to make complex concepts clear and easy to understand. You should also look for a tutor with experience and solid references.

We spoke with a tutor from K12 Tutoring, who shared the key characteristics that distinguish a good tutor from a great one:

Characteristics of a Great Math Tutor

Subject-Matter Expertise: Possesses a deep understanding of math with experience teaching it.
Positive Attitude: Encourages your child through challenges, teaches them to learn from mistakes, and fosters a love of learning.
Strong Communication Skills: Explains complex concepts clearly in a way your child understands.
Commitment to Success: Reliable and consistent, offering support every step of the way.
Patience: Takes the time to work through challenges with your child, listening to and addressing their needs.
Adaptability: Adjusts their teaching methods to fit your child’s learning style and needs.

What kind of math tutoring is available?

There are several options for tutoring services, each with its own advantages:

Online Tutoring: Services like K12 Tutoring have gained popularity among busy parents due to their flexible, personalized approach. These online learning platforms allow your child to learn from the comfort of their own home, which can be especially beneficial for students who experience fear and anxiety when studying math. K12 Tutoring stands out among online services because it is exclusively staffed with state-certified teachers who deliver personalized, tailored sessions to help your child succeed.

Local Tutoring Centers: If your child prefers in-person learning, local tutoring centers can be a great choice. These centers offer one-to-one sessions in a quiet, structured learning environment. Depending on your location, there may be multiple centers to choose from.

However, if your child experiences high math anxiety, the academic setting may amplify their fears. Visit the locations beforehand to see if they offer comfortable, supportive spaces for learning.

Private Tutoring: You can find a private tutor through your child’s school or apps like Care.com. A private tutor will offer one-to-one in-person attention, with flexibility in where tutoring takes place.

How to Overcome Math Anxiety: 4 Practical Tips for Students

Parents, you can be proactive by adding some of these positive math activities into your child’s time at home.

Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques that teach your child how to calm their nervous system during moments of fear and anxiety. Controlled breathing can help lower stress hormone levels in the blood and slow your heart rate, making it a powerful tool against feelings of anxiety.
Use real-world examples to show your child how math applies to their daily lives. Engage them in activities like measuring ingredients while cooking, using a timer, counting money at the grocery store, or calculating travel distances on car trips.
Make learning fun by incorporating educational games that increase motivation and build math skills. Platforms like the K12 Arcade offer games that encourage students to strengthen their foundational knowledge and challenge them with new concepts.
Get ahead of their anxiety by seeking help early. This can help your child stay on track with their coursework and overcome their fears before they become too overwhelming.

Break Free From Math Anxiety

Math doesn’t have to be a constant source of stress for your child. With tutoring and some positive encouragement from home, your child has the power to overcome their negative thoughts about math and build the confidence they need to succeed. Consistent, individualized support can make all the difference for a child overwhelmed by math assignments.

Many families opt for virtual tutoring, like K12 Tutoring, for accessibility and flexibility. These one-to-one virtual sessions, tailored to your child’s needs, can be conducted from the comfort of home, providing a safe and supportive environment for your child as they work through their math anxiety. With a little extra help, your child can break free from their fears and make great strides in their studies!