“That’s Not How My Teacher Does It!”: When Homework Looks Different from What You Remember

You recognise the maths question. You start explaining how to solve it. Then your child stops you:

“That’s not how my teacher does it!”

Suddenly, you’re learning something new too.

It can feel frustrating when a familiar subject comes with unfamiliar instructions. But you don’t need to know every classroom method to support your child.

Start by letting them show you.

Ask, “Can you show me an example you did at school?” A completed question, classroom worksheet or teacher’s instructions can give you both a starting point.

You can also ask, “What’s the first step your teacher showed you?” Your child may remember more when they explain it aloud.

Focus on what the steps mean.

If the method looks different, explore it together. Ask what each number, drawing or symbol represents. You’re helping your child understand the reasoning while learning how the task has been presented.

Keep a question for the teacher.

If neither of you can make sense of the instructions, write down where you got stuck. A specific question—“Could you share an example of this method?”—is easier to respond to than “We don’t understand the homework.”

Your child doesn’t need you to have every answer immediately. Seeing you ask questions and learn alongside them can make uncertainty feel more manageable.