“First In Math’s Family Link feature can completely reinvent the family dynamic surrounding math practice,” according to Suntex Vice President Barbara Asteak. “When a parent can say ‘How do you do this?’ rather than, ‘You need to do this’ that’s a game-changer.”
Vijay Anupama traveled to the Easton, PA, headquarters of Suntex International to met FIM creator Robert Sun, who invited him to test some games currently in development.
“Instead of mom and dad prompting or cajoling their child to practice math, parents can demonstrate, learn and share with their children,” explains Asteak, who also suggests that parents and students set weekly goals for each other—and celebrate together when they are achieved.
One of the top Family Link parents in the nation agrees. “My 10-year-old son Vijay has been participating in FIM for three years and has really benefitted a lot from it,” says Anne Anupama. “This year, to motivate him and give him some competition, I also began solving math problems using the Family Link User ID provided by the program.”
“When I was in school, I was a little afraid of math, but through your website, I have learned a lot of math concepts which I had avoided learning earlier in my life,” admits Anupama, who adds that she is proud because her son can solve problems much faster than she can.
Anupama’s revalation does not surprise Asteak. “I have spoken with many parents and grandparents who tell me that they didn't expect to have this much fun doing a math activity with their child. Many smile when they admit they are grateful for the opportunity to brush up on fractions, decimals and even algebra.”
Anupama says that she and her son were able to help each other with the concepts of different games and enjoyed competing with each other. “I really appreciate that Family Link is provided by the FIM program.”
At the end of FIM competition on April 30th, 2013, Vijay was ranked 22nd in the nation, all grades, and second in Pennsylvania. His mother ranked third in the nation and first in Pennsylvania among all Family Link players. In the Family Link Combined category the pair was second in the nation and first in Pennsylvania.
“Anne and Vijay have both worked very hard and spent hundreds of hours building a solid foundation and proficiency in mathematics. This effort—75,347 combined stickers—is to be lauded, and can only result from intrinsic motivation rather than extrinsic motivation,” says Robert Sun, who was honored to meet the entire family in August of 2013.
The meeting left a significant impression on her son, as well, says Anupama. "Mr. Sun’s life and hard work will really influence Vijay in his life—he will never forget it."