In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Ted Dintersmith, education disruptor, former venture capitalist, and author of Aftermath: The Math You Wish You Took. The discussion explores the gap between traditional math education and the real-world skills students actually need to succeed.

Dintersmith distills the status quo by emphasizing the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and practical application. The conversation also delves into broader parenting concerns—including emotional and mental health, social media usage, bullying, and the importance of consent—showing how these complex issues connect back to how kids learn and grow.

The discussion shares insights on how to help children build a healthier, more empowered relationship with math—and life.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the disconnect between traditional math education and real-world applications is crucial for parents.
• Parents should embrace a broader view of math, encouraging creativity and real-life relevance over rote memorization.
• The conversation around math education needs to shift from grades to fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Incorporating math discussions into everyday life can help children develop a healthier relationship with the subject.
• The rise of AI in education highlights the need for students to understand concepts rather than just procedures.
• Parents can play a vital role in their child's learning by making math fun and engaging, rather than a chore.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com