When it comes to math learning, most students are interested in finding out how to accomplish each new task. But every learner benefits by remembering that “How do I do this?” isn’t the only question that matters.

We use two separate categories of skills in our early math learning, but many students only develop the set that feels most intuitive. Teaching them how to strengthen both paper skills and puzzling skills will increase their self-awareness and teach them how to help themselves.

Students have a job to do. So do we, as helpers. If we take our jobs seriously and hold our coworkers to account, then a successful collaboration can result.