Learning math equations and solving problems can be fun for some kid and downright uncomfortable for others.

But math anxiety and not feeling like "a math person" can be avoided, according to Tina Rapke, an associate professor at York University who works directly with students and teachers from kindergarten to Grade 8.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but math anxiety starts in kindergarten," Rapke said in a phone interview with CTVNews.ca. "Math anxiety basically acts as a virus – teachers can pass it on to students and parents can pass it onto their kids."

For example, if a parent says, "I'm not a math person," in front of their child, it may negatively affect their perception of their own math abilities, according to Rapke, who says parents should completely avoid saying these types of phrases.

Read the full article on the CTV News web site.