What do we do when a math problem feels too frustrating for a student? When a student shuts down because a math problem feels too hard, many of us instinctively encourage them to push through the frustration and keep working. But what if allowing them to step away and return later was actually the more powerful move?

In this episode, we explore why giving students permission to walk away from frustrational math problems can support deeper learning, build confidence, and reduce anxiety. You’ll learn how this strategy taps into natural problem-solving processes and why it can be more effective than pushing forward in the moment.

We’ll share tips for normalizing breaks, creating space for reflection, and helping students return with fresh eyes. You’ll also hear ideas for building student autonomy and using simple questions to guide them back into the problem-solving process.

If you’re looking for practical ways to support perseverance without pressure, this episode is for you.

More from us:

👉 Follow us on Instagram @meaningfulmathco

⭐️ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. With your support, we can reach even more teachers looking to make math meaningful for their students.

In this episode, we’re exploring one of my favorite math routines, and it’s called My Favorite Mistake. I know that name might sound a little odd. After all, it makes it sound like mistakes are GOOD things. But if you’ve been part of this community for any length of time, you know that that’s exactly what I believe. Mistakes ARE good things! Press play to dive into My Favorite Mistake.

More from us:

👉 Follow us on Instagram @meaningfulmathco

⭐️ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. With your support, we can reach even more teachers looking to make math meaningful for their students.

This episode explores how real-time recording of student thinking can strengthen classroom discussions and support deeper mathematical understanding. Together, we’ll unpack strategies for capturing and organizing student ideas in ways that honor their reasoning and promote connection across different strategies.

You’ll come away with practical tools for turning classroom conversations into meaningful visual artifacts that can guide instruction, build collective knowledge, and keep student voices at the center of the learning process.

More from us:

👀 Read the Transcript HERE

👉 Follow us on Instagram @meaningfulmathco

⭐️ SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

If you loved this episode, please take a minute to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. With your support, we can reach even more teachers looking to make math meaningful for their students. Thank you!