The System IS Broken

The problem with math is NOT your child.

If your student feels confused, overwhelmed, or frustrated with math—even when they’re trying—the issue is not effort, motivation, or ability.
 The system is broken.

In this episode of Tier One Interventions, we unpack why so many kids struggle with math despite years of instruction, intervention, and support. From number lines and disconnected procedures to well-intended interventions that miss foundational understanding, we examine how traditional math instruction often works against the brain.

You’ll learn:

This conversation is for parents, teachers, therapists, and homeschool educators who are tired of blaming kids—and are ready to understand what’s really going wrong.

Because when we stop asking “What’s wrong with the child?” and start asking “What’s wrong with the system?”
 Everything changes.

👇 Comment below: Where do you see kids getting stuck most often in math?

👉 Want to see the full instructional progression step-by-step?
 Join one Mastery Math Method Workshop for just $47.

00:00 – The problem is NOT the kids

01:18 – What we’re seeing in classrooms everywhere

03:42 – Why kids feel confused even when they’re trying

06:15 – The hidden flaw in how math is taught

09:08 – Number lines, procedures, and disconnected learning

12:34 – Why intervention doesn’t fix the real issue

15:50 – What kids actually need to understand math

19:22 – The cost of a broken system

22:40 – A better way forward

26:05 – Closing: what changes when we stop blaming kids

👉 Join our FREE Masterclass for school leaders, teachers, and OTs:
 https://disabilitylabs.com/calendar

🌐 Website: https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
📧 Disability Labs Community: https://disabilitylabs.com/community/3d-learning-lounge-1

🎙️ Credits:
Host: Cheri Dotterer
Co-Host: Jonily Zupancic
Production: Disability Labs Podcast Network

Mastery Math Method Level One (Lifetime Access): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-bundle
Mastery Math Method Level Two (Annual Subscription): https://disabilitylabs.com/courses/mastery-math-method-group-coaching

⚠️ Disclaimer: The content shared in this video is for educational purposes only and does not replace your district’s policies or individualized education plans. Always consult with your instructional team before implementing new strategies.

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