Help with math

[robbie]

I would really appreciate some recommendations for a solid elementary math curriculum. I'm looking for something that will lay a great foundation for the upper grades. This is our first year homeschooling, and my 8yo ds did Math U See Beta. He hated math by the end of the year. I think it was just not enough variety for him... too much of the same thing! I'm asking for help on this board because I know there's a lot of experience here... and I don't want to look back wishing that I had used something different!
Math is not my strongest subject, and that's why I had chose MUS for the teaching videos. I don't think My ds is real mathy either, but with the right curriculum maybe that will change. He will be a 3rd grader.
Thank you for any wisdom you can give, this has been a real struggle for us!
Robin

[Pam L in Mid Tenn]

I was going to suggest MUS, but I see you've used that and basically hate it.LOL It has been, however, the BEST foundation for our family.

I think all the 'major' curricula you always hear about lay a good foundation. Saxon, Modern Curriclum Press, Abeka, BJU, Horizons. All the major secular publishers have good books too, just be careful and actually review before you buy.. I've found the secular publishers have books that are meant for slower learners and are a bit "twaddly".

In fact, you should always review ANY math text before you buy.

[Susan C.]

First child, math was a disaster, did several programs. Presently, 2nd child, daughter, just finished Algebra 1 in Bob Jones (BJU). She has been in their math since the 3rd grade, and it has been great. The books have been just the right level, and they don't have spiral review. (there are a couple of aggravating items like front end estimation, I just changed to all rounding and liked that better) They only work on one concept at a time (meaning a whole chapter on fractions, nothing else until review). I did not need dvds until this year, so she did BJU math 3rd grade through pre-algebra, just me and her :)

[robbie]

Thanks Pam! I really like MUS myself... it's very simple, clean pages and easy for me to teach! The problem is with my ds, he doesn't like it. I think he needs something with more variety, and a little color. I've looked at Horizon, but I think that goes to fast for him. The samples on Abeka on not real good... it would probable need to buy a book to see. I have also looking at BJU and SM. Maybe some others with some long term experience with these will chime in.
Robin:)

[robbie]

(BJU). She has been in their math since the 3rd grade, and it has been great. The books have been just the right level, and they don't have spiral review. (there are a couple of aggravating items like front end estimation, I just changed to all rounding and liked that better) They only work on one concept at a time (meaning a whole chapter on fractions, nothing else until review). I did not need dvds until this year, so she did BJU math 3rd grade through pre-algebra, just me and her :)

Thanks Susan! Looking at the samples and the scope and sequence of BJU, it looks like my ds would also be at the right level (3rd grade). I'm sorry I am not familiar with the term "front end estimation"??? I like the idea of one concept at a time. By the scope and sequence it looks very thorough. What about the extra workbooks?
Robin:)