A child may not need a separate practice programme. A quick reminder when a familiar calculation appears can be enough to keep the method accessible.

Revisit one example

Before homework, look at one previously completed calculation of the same type. Ask the child to explain the method and identify any point where an error is easy to make.

Turn the example over and let them complete the new question. Check:

• whether the layout matches the school method;

• whether the answer makes sense;

• whether the opposite calculation (such as adding to check a subtraction) or an estimate could confirm it.

If the calculation is completed accurately, move on. Do not add an extra worksheet “just in case”.

Use difficulty as information

Bring the worked example back only when the same method causes difficulty again. Note the operation and the exact step that was forgotten. This gives school useful information if the problem becomes frequent.

The aim is for your child to use the method on their own. There’s no need for daily practice.

A free resource

The National Numeracy Family Maths Toolkit provides free activities for using number at home. You need to give an email address to get them.

Talamo has no commercial relationship with any of the organisations named here. We suggest them only because we think they could be useful to families.