In a previous post, I recommended the book Bounce. It tells how greatness comes not from nature, but nurture and, most importantly, practice.
I shared how my Son had consistently failed his school2 star badge test for times tables and how we practised every night to the point he could successfully complete two tests within the required time.
Well, he had his final test of the year two weeks ago.
And he got one wrong.
4 x 8 is not 48, it's 32.
He was devastated.
He knew the right answer, but didnt write it. He also missed the mistake when checking his answers in the remaining time.
In his next Maths lesson the Teacher asked him "What's 4x8?" as he entered the classroom.
He answered immediately "32"', and was ultimately awarded his badge.
I thank the teacher and the school for recognising his effort and for giving him a second chance. It turns out this is the usual practice, but I am grateful nonetheless.
And then, to top it all, he was awarded with the Maths prize at the school's Speech Day.
I could have (and probably did) cry with joy.
So, I reassert, practice does make perfect. It just might take a little longer, and be in a different way to what you expect.