Your Homeschool & Math: with Jessica Kaminskit
Are you ready to revolutionize your homeschool math journey? In our latest episode of The Homeschool Perspective, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Jessica Kaminski, an expert in Singapore Math with over 16 years of experience. Jessica’s impressive background includes contributing to key math resources and training educators worldwide…and making math fun, accessible, and truly enjoyable for kids and parents alike!
Many homeschooling parents worry about their ability to teach math, especially if they had negative experiences with the subject themselves. Jessica reassures parents that it’s okay to learn alongside their children. She emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, where challenges are seen as opportunities for learning and growth.
Her message is clear: you don’t have to be a math expert to teach math effectively. With the right resources and mindset, anyone can succeed.
Meet Jessica Kaminski
Jessica Kaminski’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. A former classroom teacher, Jessica transitioned to homeschooling her own children, embracing a more flexible and personalized approach to education. Her deep dive into Singapore Math transformed her teaching of math from rote memorization to a focus on critical thinking and problem-solving. Jessica’s passion for math and her practical insights make her an invaluable resource for homeschooling families.
Why Singapore Math?
Jessica explains how Singapore Math stands out with its emphasis on understanding over memorization. Unlike traditional math methods, which often rely heavily on following steps, Singapore Math encourages students to grasp the “why” behind the concepts.
This approach not only makes math more engaging but also helps develop crucial critical thinking skills. Jessica’s personal experience with this method has shown her how effective it can be in making math an enjoyable and meaningful part of education.
Practical, Hands-On Learning
One of the key takeaways from our conversation with Jessica is the importance of starting with concrete examples before moving to abstract concepts. This method aligns perfectly with how children naturally learn and helps them connect math to real-world experiences. Whether it’s counting chickens on the farm or using math tools to visualize problems, Jessica demonstrates how hands-on learning can make a significant difference in understanding and retention.
Explore Math with Purpose
Jessica introduces her resource library, Math with Purpose, a comprehensive collection of over 800 videos designed to support homeschooling families. These short, engaging videos cover various math strategies and concepts, making it easier for parents to teach and for children to understand. Additionally, a new self-grading feature is set to roll out soon, adding even more value to this already invaluable resource.
A New Perspective on Math
This episode is an absolute must for anyone looking to enhance their homeschooling experience. Jessica Kaminski’s insights into math, her practical tips for hands-on learning, and her encouraging message about overcoming math anxiety will leave you feeling inspired and equipped to tackle math with confidence.
Be sure to check out the awesome resources at Math With Purpose and connect with Jessica on Instagram.