In the primary school children do not hate mathematics/arithmetic; they do not understand it. They are many reasons for that, but the most important ones is the bad qualification and poor preparation of the teacher and the content of the book used.
It is purely due to several of the primary school mathematics teachers. If a child starts fearing to do mathematics problems at primary level, the gap in between him and mathematics will start widening
As I have observed, not all my students do hate math. I teach them Mathematical Analysis I and II (Calculus), as well as Convex Optimization (in case of Master students). Sustaining the theoretical part by applications in physics seem to be a good method in increasing their interest. Another method is giving geometrical meaning of some notions and results formulated in an "abstract" way. The latter remark is valid especially in solving minimum and maximum problems, as well as in solving problems involving convexity (Jensen inequality and its applications, etc.)
There is no problem in Mathematics. It's a great tool to learn, to use in our real life with great fun.
Primary school students will be more interested in learning Mathematics by 3D Model, 3D Animation.
Mathematics can not stand alone. Its needs Arts to express its beauty. There is no importance to remember formulas, laws of Mathematics to solve any problem in the examination Hall (like the History).
So the problem lies in the procedure of taking the Mathematics Examination. All the formulas, laws, charts, etc. which need to remember that should be available with the questions. It will dramatically increase the interest in Mathematics.
Remembering formulas make Mathematics a reflection of History or another subject that need to remember in the Examination Hall (besides our daily life).
The basics fundamental laws should be taught in our classes, and the advanced problems should be solved by the students themselves. The teacher will check whether individual students ( my ) thinking and methodology are going into the right direction or not.
A teacher is not required to learn whatever written the books (at the higher level ); they need to acquire the knowledge which is beyond the knowledge of books.