Math choices

[thegracelife]

We are using LHFHG this year (my first year of homeschooling.) I was gifted a brand new copy of Horizons K math w/ the teacher's manual, so we're using that this year. I'd like to try Singapore next year, especially since it goes along with the guide written. Are there any major changes between the two that will throw us off next year? Is everything they learn in the early years pretty standard? Does anyone else consistently use anything else, other than Singapore? I've looked at MUS for a possible option for my youngest son, when the day comes, but I have a while before I need to worry about that.

[StephanieU]

We are using Horizons. Math was the first subject I looked at as that is what I have a degree in. I wanted a strong program knowing I could add in the hands-on things if needed (I used to teach math for elementary school teachers). Horizons and ABeka are the two most rigorous options for math. By 2nd or 3rd grade, most kids will be a grade level ahead of the other programs. I looked at the exit tests on Singapore's page, and after K, my daughter could possibly jump to 1B instead of 1A. But, it looks like Singapore is pretty strong too. Will it throw you off using Horizons this year - no. If you do start with 1A next year, just know that some things will be a review that aren't "intended" to be a review. We are going to stick with Horizons because my daughter likes how it is set up. She likes the spiral approach, and I don't see a point in changing at least for now.

If you look at signatures, etc. you will see others use MUS and CLE too. The key is finding the one that works best for you and your child. Some might do a slightly better job of preparing kids for Calculus, but all of the ones I have seen do a fine job of preparing for at least college algebra. So find the one that works best for your family!