Little Minds Big Thinkers

Emily Jenkins, a passionate kindergarten teacher from Illinois, discusses the transformative power of thinking classrooms in early math education. She shares how her curriculum choices inspire young learners and foster community engagement through fun, relatable activities. With an emphasis on social-emotional learning, Emily highlights the importance of embracing mistakes while encouraging collaboration among students. Her innovative strategies, including the use of manipulatives, create an engaging environment that nurtures a love for mathematics in her classroom.

In this episode, I share some thoughts with the help of Vanessa Vakharia and her book, Math Therapy.Math TherapyThe Imperfect and Unfinished Math TeacherMath surveyMath MuseumWhat is math?Where's the math?

Discover how to engage young minds in double-digit addition using base 10 blocks. The discussion highlights the power of collaboration among students, particularly in supporting those with disabilities. Plus, explore the vital role of trust in mathematical learning, illustrated through an inspiring story of two boys. Unconventional methods lead to transformative experiences, changing the way we view education.

Dive into the transformative world of math education as new insights from teaching books are unpacked. Discover how redefining what it means to be good at math can foster a positive mindset among students. Emphasizing the importance of mistakes as learning opportunities, the discussion highlights the need for supportive environments where young minds can flourish. It's a refreshing take on cultivating mathematical confidence in future thinkers.

In this episode, I get to glean so many beautiful nuggets from Kristen Acosta. She's a sixth-grade teacher in California and is also a beautiful creator of many free resources for elementary teachers. You will definitely want to check her out! Kristen's site Which One Doesn't Belong Number Talks Graham Fletcher Obvious to You, Amazing to Others video

In this episode, I talk with Megan Madlem. She is a kindergarten teacher in Indiana. I find it especially intriguing to peek into the world of teachers who are building thinking classrooms with our youngest learners. They are impressive pioneers and deserve a huge applause. No doubt you'll see what I mean when you listen in. Graham Fletcher 3 Act Tasks Steve Wyborney's Site Kristen Acosta's Site Tammy's task document The Anxious Generation

James Myklebust-Hampshire, a fifth-grade teacher in Norway and creator of the Sembl tool, shares insights from his journey in education. He discusses the transformative power of thinking classrooms that boost student engagement and confidence. The conversation also delves into building strong relationships with students and the significance of a supportive educational community. With a light-hearted take on celebrating life, James emphasizes the integration of innovative methods and the resources available for math teachers to enhance their practice.

In today's episode, I talk to Kristin Parmenter. She teaches fourth grade in Florida. It's a joy to chat with someone who has found such joy in her new thinking classroom. She's one to watch!

In this episode, Ashley Smith, a first-grade teacher in South Carolina, and I talk about what worked in our thinking classrooms in 2024. I hope you enjoy our time traveling conversation. Enjoy! Emily P. Freeman Ashley's first episode Ann Elise's episode Kim Rimbey's episode What Worked in 2023 episode Amy Chang's episode Christina Tondevold: Strategies vs. Models Pam Harris: Strategies vs. Models Numicon Shapes Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, K-5

In this episode, I had a lovely chat with Lindsay Watts, who teaches second grade in California. She's in the early stages of her thinking classroom and is open, honest, and reflective about her journey in a way that is sure to inspire others who are in a similar position. I'm looking forward to you all listening in. The Mathematics Playbook