Mathematics is a core subject in the UK National Curriculum and an important part of daily learning in primary school. From early number work in Key Stage 1 (KS1) to more complex problem-solving in Key Stage 2 (KS2), children develop skills that support later education and everyday life.
However, many pupils experience difficulties with maths at some point. Struggles are common and do not mean a child cannot succeed. Maths learning involves many small steps, and some children need more time, practice, or different approaches to feel confident.
This article explains the most common maths challenges for children aged 6–11 and how regular, supportive practice can help at home and in the classroom. It also highlights the benefits and limits of practice, offering realistic guidance for parents and teachers.
Why Maths Can Feel Difficult
Maths is different from some other subjects because new learning often depends on earlier skills. If a child is unsure about basic number facts, later topics can feel much harder.
Common reasons maths may feel challenging include:
- Gaps in early understanding
- Difficulty remembering facts
- Confusion with maths language
- Anxiety or lack of confidence
- Moving too quickly to new topics
In both KS1 and KS2, children learn best when they feel safe to make mistakes and have time to revisit key ideas.
Short, regular practice can support learning, but it works best when combined with clear teaching and encouragement.
Common Struggles in KS1 (Ages 6–7)
In KS1, children build the foundations of maths. These early skills are essential for future success.
Number Recognition and Place Value
Some children find it hard to recognise numbers or understand what they mean.
For example:
- Confusing 14 and 41
- Struggling to see that 23 means two tens and three ones
Helpful practice includes:
- Using number lines
- Counting objects in groups
- Talking about tens and ones in everyday situations
Early Addition and Subtraction
Many pupils need time to understand that addition means combining and subtraction means taking away.
Children may:
- Count every time instead of recalling facts
- Forget how to set out a calculation
Practice can include:
- Simple number bonds to 10
- Small subtraction stories using toys or counters
Common Struggles in KS2 (Ages 7–11)
In KS2, maths becomes more detailed. Children work with larger numbers, fractions, and multi-step problems.
Times Tables and Multiplication Facts
Learning multiplication facts is a major challenge for many pupils.
Children may:
- Mix up similar facts (6×7 and 7×6)
- Struggle with quick recall
Regular practice helps, especially when:
- Done in short sessions
- Linked to patterns (e.g., 5s always end in 0 or 5)
Division and Understanding Remainders
Division is often harder than multiplication because it requires strong number sense.
Children may find it difficult to:
- Share equally
- Understand what a remainder means
Practice examples include:
- Sharing objects into groups
- Using real-life problems like dividing sweets or stickers
Difficulties with Maths Language
Maths has its own vocabulary, and some children struggle with the words used in questions.
Examples of confusing terms include:
- More than / less than
- Difference
- Multiple
- Factor
- Estimate
Teachers and parents can help by:
- Explaining words clearly
- Using the same language often
- Encouraging children to underline key terms
Struggles with Word Problems
Word problems require children to read, understand, and choose the correct operation.
This can be difficult because it involves:
- Reading comprehension
- Maths knowledge
- Reasoning skills
Common Issues
Children may:
- Not know which operation to use
- Focus on the wrong numbers
- Rush without checking
Helpful Practice
Practice can include:
- One-step problems before multi-step ones
- Talking through the problem aloud
- Using drawings or bar models
Fractions: A Common KS2 Challenge
Fractions are one of the most common areas of difficulty in primary maths.
Children may struggle to understand that fractions are numbers, not just shapes.
Typical Misunderstandings
- Thinking 1/8 is bigger than 1/4 because 8 is larger
- Finding equivalent fractions confusing
Practice Ideas
- Folding paper into equal parts
- Using fraction walls
- Comparing fractions with pictures
Place Value and Larger Numbers
As numbers grow larger, children must understand how digits change value depending on position.
For example:
- In 3,452 the 4 means 400, not 4
Some pupils find it hard to:
- Read large numbers
- Partition numbers correctly
Practice can include:
- Writing numbers in words
- Using place value charts
- Breaking numbers into thousands, hundreds, tens, and ones
Mental Maths and Recall Difficulties
Mental maths is important for speed and confidence, but some children find it stressful.
Children may:
- Forget number facts
- Take longer to calculate mentally
- Avoid answering quickly
Supportive Practice
Mental maths improves when:
- Practice is frequent but short
- Children learn strategies, not just answers
Examples:
- Making tens (8 + 7 = 8 + 2 + 5)
- Doubling and halving
The Role of Practice in Building Confidence
Practice helps children become more secure with maths skills. It supports memory, fluency, and understanding.
However, practice should not feel like punishment. The aim is steady improvement, not perfection.
Benefits of Regular Practice
- Strengthens recall of key facts
- Helps spot patterns
- Builds confidence over time
- Makes classroom learning easier
Limitations of Practice
Practice alone may not help if:
- A child does not understand the concept
- Tasks are too difficult
- Sessions are too long or repetitive
Practice works best alongside clear teaching and discussion.
Effective Practice Methods for Home and School
Both parents and teachers can support maths practice in simple ways.
Short Practice Sessions
Children learn better with short sessions, such as:
- 10 minutes a day
- Little and often rather than long weekly tasks
Mixing Skills and Problem Solving
A balance is important.
| Practice Type | Example Activity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency | Times table recall | Builds speed |
| Reasoning | Explain why an answer is correct | Builds understanding |
| Problem Solving | Word problems | Applies skills |
Using Everyday Maths
Maths can be practised naturally through:
- Cooking (measuring ingredients)
- Shopping (working out change)
- Telling the time
- Reading timetables
Interactive and Game-Based Practice (Used Carefully)
Some children enjoy interactive or game-based maths practice. Digital activities can make repetition feel more engaging.
Possible benefits include:
- Immediate feedback
- Motivation through challenge
- Variety in practice
However, limitations include:
- Over-focus on speed rather than thinking
- Screen time concerns
- Not replacing real understanding
Interactive practice is most helpful when used as one part of a wider approach.
Supporting Children Emotionally
Maths struggles can affect confidence. Some pupils begin to believe they are “not good at maths.”
Adults can support by:
- Praising effort, not just correct answers
- Allowing mistakes as part of learning
- Avoiding pressure or comparison
- Encouraging a growth mindset
Simple reassurance can make a big difference.
Key Takeaways
- Maths struggles are common in both KS1 and KS2.
- Difficulties often involve number facts, place value, fractions, and word problems.
- Regular practice helps build fluency, confidence, and understanding.
- Practice should be short, supportive, and matched to the child’s level.
- Conceptual understanding is just as important as repetition.
- Home and school can work together through everyday maths and positive encouragement.
FAQ
Why does my child find maths harder than reading?
Maths builds step by step. Missing early skills can make later topics feel difficult, even if reading is strong.
How much maths practice is enough?
Short daily practice (around 10 minutes) is often more effective than long sessions.
Should children memorise times tables?
Yes, recall helps in KS2, but children also need to understand what multiplication means.
What if practice makes my child upset?
Practice should feel manageable. If stress builds, reduce the difficulty and focus on confidence first.
Can games replace written maths work?
Games can support learning, but they should not replace teaching, discussion, and problem-solving.
Conclusion
Maths learning in primary school includes many new ideas, and struggles are a normal part of the process. In KS1, children develop early number understanding, while KS2 introduces more complex topics such as fractions, multiplication, and reasoning.
Supportive, regular practice can help children strengthen key skills, build confidence, and feel more secure in lessons. The most effective practice is short, varied, and focused on understanding as well as fluency.
With patience, encouragement, and the right level of challenge, children can make steady progress and develop a positive relationship with maths that will support them throughout their education.
