The leap from elementary school to high school can feel overwhelming for both students and parents. Math, in particular, takes a noticeable turn. In Ontario, students move into Grade 9 de-streamed math, which blends concepts from previous years with new, more abstract thinking. It’s a shift in pace, difficulty, and expectations.
Suddenly, students are expected to apply what they’ve learned in new ways, often with less one-on-one attention. This can lead to frustration, especially if there are gaps in understanding from earlier grades.
The good news? With early support and the right tools, students can build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.
Signs Your Child Might Struggle in High School Math
Not every student shows obvious signs they’re having trouble. But as a parent, there are key things to watch for. These signs don’t necessarily mean your child is failing, but they could suggest they may need extra help before they fall too far behind.
1. They Avoid Math Homework or Say “I’m Just Not Good at Math”
If your child frequently says math is confusing, boring, or “not their thing,” it could be a sign that they’re feeling overwhelmed. This mindset can lead to avoidance, low motivation, and declining performance.
2. Their Grades Have Been Inconsistent
Sometimes students do well on assignments but struggle on tests, or they seem to “get it” in class but can’t apply the same skills later. This inconsistency can point to missing foundational math skills that weren’t fully mastered in earlier years.
3. They Struggle with Word Problems or Multi-Step Tasks
As math becomes more about problem-solving and less about memorization, students are expected to interpret questions, apply formulas, and explain their reasoning. If your child has difficulty organizing their thoughts or choosing the right steps, they may need support developing math strategies that work for them.
4. They Feel Anxious Before Tests
Test anxiety is common in high school, especially when students don’t feel prepared. If your child gets nervous, avoids reviewing, or panics during assessments, it could signal a lack of confidence in their math skills.
Why It’s Better to Act Early
If your child is heading into Grade 9 math or already struggling in their first semester, now is the time to act. Waiting until a report card shows poor marks can make recovery harder. The earlier a student gets help, the more likely they are to stay on track—and avoid long-term frustration.
A strong foundation in Grade 9 sets the tone for the rest of high school, especially as students move into academic math, Functions, or Advanced Functions in Grades 10 to 12. These are not just important for graduation but also for post-secondary plans.
How a Math Tutor Can Help
Hiring a math tutor isn’t just for students who are failing—it’s a proactive step that supports learning in a customized way. At The Progressive Centre, our math tutoring programs are designed to meet students where they are, building on what they already know and filling in the gaps.
Here’s what a tutor can provide:
- A personalized assessment to identify areas of strength and weakness
- Lessons aligned with the Ontario curriculum
- Strategies for problem-solving, organization, and studying
- A safe space to ask questions and build confidence
- Progress tracking and regular feedback for parents
Some students may only need short-term help to feel confident. Others may benefit from regular sessions throughout the semester to stay on top of assignments and test prep.
Final Thoughts
Starting high school is a big step, and math often becomes one of the most challenging subjects during this transition. But your child doesn’t have to go through it alone. With support from an experienced math tutor, they can build a strong foundation, develop better habits, and walk into class ready to succeed.
If you’re unsure whether your child is ready, consider a math check-in this summer. Even one or two sessions can make a big difference in their mindset and readiness for the school year ahead.
