Breaking the “I’m Not a Math Person” Myth: How to Help Your Child Love Learning Again

Children don’t naturally dislike math. They learn that belief through experiences that chip away at confidence—wrong answers in class, comparisons with peers, or hearing adults say, “I was never good at math either.”

The Psychology Behind the Myth

The “I’m not a math person” myth is essentially a fixed mindset, the belief that intelligence is static rather than developable. Research published by Frontiers in Psychology shows that students who view intelligence as fixed are more likely to give up when they encounter challenges.

When a child repeatedly fails to meet their expectations, their brain starts associating math with stress. They might say, “I’m stupid,” or “I can’t do this,” even before trying. Over time, this self-talk becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Common Signs Your Child Has Adopted This Belief

• Gives up on homework quickly or avoids it altogether.

• Feels physical stress (headaches, stomachaches) before tests.

• compare themselves negatively to classmates.

• Says, “I’m not good at this,” or “I’ll never get it.”

These emotional cues signal a need for early intervention and positive reinforcement.