I agree that enrichment programme would not work in this case. Her child actually needs alternative addition and subtraction methods.


The method of counting on by steps using number line can easily get the answer for addition even for slow learners when they get used to it.

The method of counting backward by steps using number line can also help subtraction easily.

During exam, when there is no number line, a ruler can be used as a replacement.

Many children who are weak in Mathematics have shown great progress after using this method. There are definitely other ways but a bit harder like mental counting.

Example- Get child to add 8 + 4.

The child will raise up 4 fingers. Tell the child to say that the 8 is in his brain now. Count 8 first by touching his own head. After that, bring down each finger by count on with the 4 fingers. 9, 10, 11, 12. Notice that the child reaches 12 after counting on. This is the mental addition method.


I hope it is useful. If you really need a private tutor, you can get one by sending an email to supergrace5@gmail.com where this teacher is aware of alternative methods.

The fact is that even if you get a private tutor who comes once or twice a week, it would not be effective if you don't learn the method and practice with your child.

I hope this is an useful reply to the struggling parents of lower primary.
:imcool:

It is really not easy to find a tutor when your child is special need. Lots of patient is necessary. I guess it is hard to accept that your child is special need in the first place.


It is really important to keep a postive attitude in the first place to believe that all children can learn but some learn slower.

Having one to one help does help if you do not know how to do so. Don't give up hope but keep believing that your child can learn.

Get a tutor, go to private special need school for extra enrichment and do whatever you can to help your child cope better. Better to have a bit of improvement than not having any.

If you really need a tutor for special needs at primary level, you can message me if you stay in Jurong as I have contacts. :goodpost:

Nevertheless, it is the best if you can guide your child personally if you can as it saves more money. If you really cannot and no patience, you should seek for help then. Leaving improvement to chances is going to be your disappointment as your child grows older and older.

Can even end up in foundation class when the gap gets wider as the years go on. Close the gap as early as Primary 1 or even better before is important.

I hope this gives some thoughts to parents with special needs.