Learning to love math

Learning to Love Math was published in 2010 by the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development to address the growing pedagogical challenge of student anxiety toward mathematics. Written by Judy Willis, a neurologist and former classroom teacher, the book emerged from a professional movement aimed at bridging the gap between brain-based research and practical classroom instruction. Willis sought to provide educators with actionable strategies to replace the traditional fear-based response to math with engagement driven by dopamine release and neuroplasticity.

The design of the book reflects a bridge between clinical neuroscience and accessible educational literature. Willis purposefully structured the content to explain how stress and negative expectations physically impede cognitive processing, advocating for a learning environment that prioritizes emotional safety and curiosity. Upon its release, the text was well-received within educational circles for its interdisciplinary approach, serving as a foundational resource for teachers looking to implement brain-friendly strategies to improve student achievement and long-term retention.