Math recommendations ?

[debbiec]

I have a Down Syndrome son who we are afterschooling, and will definitely homeschool this fall. I already have HS'd older 14 year old brother for 5 years, so this won't be entirely new.

But, his main struggle is math. He is 11 years old and we are REALLY struglling with basic math. He memorizes well, and can use a calculator, but I really want him to be able to understand the math somewhat. We are aiming for lifeskills, money, time, etc...He can count to 100 +, count by 10's, but conceptually, he doesn't get it. WE really have to get these basics down before I can even think he will understand time or money (though he knows all the coins, and that one is worth more, but doesn't understand the amounts at all).

Some have recommended MATH U SEE, working with rods, etc...

I have looked some at Kumon on line. Someone told me you can get this at the homeschool curriculum fair. It teaches one concept at a time until mastery. I think that kind of program would work and am hopeing to find some other similar options.

Any experience with teaching math concepts. This is hard for me, because son #1 was smart. We have used Saxon, and just got it so easily.

Thanks ~

[hsmamainva]

I would recommend Math-U-See....it's very visual in it's approach.

I would go to their website and do a placement test, to see where it would be best for him to begin.

[Cadam]

I would hands down do Math u See. get the demo video. The creator has a son with Downs and gives some tips occasionally on how he uses the program with this son and other kids who struggle. I don't think you will find a better fit. It still may not be easy but this is a great program.

No jumping from one topic to another. You will spend a whole book on single digit addition and subtraction. Each lesson will add a bit of information and complexity to the basic process. You learn to count dimes at the same time you learn to skip count by 10's and that kind of thing. Everything is kept very concrete and hands on, even telling time. I use the test sheets as extra practice pages and you can print even more worksheets off from there website if the 6 in the book are not enough for that lesson. The pages are uncluttered so they are not distracting and there are not to many problems on a page which can be overwhelming for some kids.

You can check out information and order a free demo video here (mathusee.com). I have used all of the levels though Delta and I am about to start Epsilon so if you have questions I would be happy to answer them.:)

[nmoira]

I'd talk to Rosine at Right Start (http://www.alabacus.com) before making up your mind. IIRC, her child is developmentally disabled and she might have some good tips.

[debbiec]

Thanks y'all. I have the MUS demo video and have talked to them. I'm going to look into RightStart as well.