Growing up, I thought math was rigid — one method, one answer — and that if I didn’t get it, that was on me. I was surprised to discover that there are many different ways to solve problems, and that exploring and comparing strategies is beneficial to students’ learning. Hearing that made my students feel so much better. When students feel safe enough to take risks and persevere, it not only builds their skills but also their confidence. Whether we’re teaching or learning math, we all want to feel capable and supported.