Hey kids! School is imminent... sneaking up on you in just days... it makes you quiver with anticipation or maybe memories of eternal boredom. As my son says, "NO not already!".

You are NOT alone in feeling completely UNPREPARED!

You now have Tika to help... join me here, and together we will navigate these upcoming months of math while I also share with you a little bit about my life experiences as well as mentor you through this process, because this won't be boring! :

Getting Ready for the School Year

The return to the school year after summer is always a strange feeling. You either cannot wait to see your friends again or you cannot stand the thought of waking up to early morning alarms, homework, etc. The most important thing to remember is that you can overcome any issues with math by using the right resources. Whether you're in high school taking advanced placement classes or just need help from someone to explain something in terms that will be understandable, I will be there to help.

After working with many students over the years, I have found something very interesting. The reality of math anxiety is both very true, and with the right resources you can overcome it. Many of the students that struggle the most with Maths, are not necessarily the ones who are not good at Maths, but instead may just simply need their teacher or tutor to explain the Maths differently to them. This is where the personalized assistance comes in, which is exactly what I want to provide through my videos and posts.

What You Can Expect from Tika Time

For now, just review math facts and I'll pick up on Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry vlogs on YouTube under TIKA TIME. Please don't be mad if I don't keep up as fast as you like... I have 4 kids and I am a private tutor at home as well so I may get behind BUT I will be back haha!

My goal is to make these videos feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation. When you're working through challenging problems - whether that's factoring polynomials in your Algebra 2 tutoring sessions or proving theorems in Geometry tutoring - it helps to have someone who remembers what it's like to be confused by these concepts. I've been there, and more importantly, I've helped countless students get through it.

Why These Subjects Matter

Algebra 2 is based on everything you've learned in Algebra 1, but adds complexity in the areas of variable exponents, integral and rational functions. It can be intimidating to learn this subject, but I've discovered that the most effective way to teach it is to take it step by step and break down each section as much as possible. I do not rush students to the next section or skip steps; rather, I help my students develop a solid foundation and understanding of Algebra 2 as they progress.

While Algebra 2 is more conceptual than Algebra 1, Geometry is where we begin to visualize mathematics. There are shapes, angles, proofs, and reasoning in three dimensions. Some students thrive in Geometry because they see it as the next logical progression from Algebra; however, some students struggle with proof-based geometry because it requires logical reasoning. I ensure that I provide the necessary tools for students to see and develop a clear understanding of the reasoning involved in theorems, rather than just memorizing formulas without understanding.

A Little About Me

Teaching math isn't just my job - it's something I genuinely love. Balancing four kids and private tutoring at home keeps me busy, but it also keeps me grounded in what real students and real families need. I understand the chaos of school nights, the frustration when a concept just won't click, and the amazing feeling when something finally makes sense.

This is me and my hubs enjoying the last few days of summer break at the lake in Minnesota! We try to soak up every moment of sunshine and relaxation before the schedule gets packed again. These moments remind me why balance is so important, and why I want to help students not just survive school but actually enjoy learning.

Let's Do This Together

Regardless if your math class fills you with dread or your excitement for tackling new problems is all-consuming, the important thing to remember is that you are not alone in this. There are resources out there to help!

Check out TIKA TIME on YouTube for math tips and tutorials, ask questions on social media, and make this the year where you actually enjoy math! I will be providing regular posts with math tips, how I solve problems step by step, and support to encourage you as you progress through the math learning process this school year!