I love the Math-It program for learning basic math facts. It comes with three games: Add-It, Dublit and Timzit. The games have one purpose: to teach basic math facts. It is not a full math curriculum, nor is it some board game kids are supposed to pick up and play "for fun". I like the simplicity of this, and I like the method they use. Enoch (9) is currently using it to memorize his multiplication facts. Enoch finds it much less tedious than flash cards and hand-held math drills.
The other thing I love about Math-It is the amazing little tricks it teaches. Tricks that I had never learned before. Tricks for quickly adding large stacks of numbers, and for doing complex multiplication in your head. For a child who doesn't love math, this program teaches the basic facts thoroughly and boosts confidence by teaching them how to add and multiply numbers- probably faster than their parents.
And while you're at it, buy a copy of the book Homegrown Kids, by Raymond and Dorothy Moore. This book has probably done more to influence my style of homeschooling than anything else. I read it when Adalia was a baby and am still reaping the benefits of that.
I’m always looking for math resources. I’ll have to check this out!
Your picture has just given me a great idea for Ella to practice her subtraction facts. I’m going to make my own “answer board” and she can lay her flash cards on the top! Thanks! 🙂
oh, that looks neat!!! i’m going to have to get it… wonder how young they can use it? or if i’ll have to wait (since Mia is only 3)
Do you know the 9 times trick? How to explain it in a few words is a challenge. Hold out both hands in front like you are going to push something. 9 times 2…put your second finger down (as you look at it, so it will be ring finger on left hand). What is left? 1 and 8, 9 times 2 is 18. Then, third finger down leaves you with 2 and 7 etc. Get it? Can do up to 9 times 9 like that. Kids will stop using it when it gets annoying enough and they remember faster than have to do it.
Ah, I remember Math-It! 9+s: count back one and say “-teen.” I can’t say I loved it when my mom pulled it out to work on, but it stuck and was far better than a worksheet.
I’m so glad I read back through these comments because that trick that Lou shared is a jewel! I’ve never heard that before, but I am surely going to use that with my kids. Thank you!!! 🙂
We loved this way back when my kiddos needed it!!