Although word problem practice is vital to producing strong elementary math students, maintaining its dynamism can be challenging. I’ve found that when daily problem-solving time only consists of standard word problems, the routines become stale and student interest fades. Therefore, for students to remain interested and progress, they need to experience problem solving in different ways. I recommend that teachers adopt a coaching mentality to problem-solving, treating standard word problems as a once or twice/week event, while providing practice opportunities on the other days.