[dandelion]

I'm having a really hard time finding a comprehensive math program for my son. He's only 5 1/2, but he's quite advanced with mathematics - he's able to add "thousands" in his head (1244 + 1244 = 2488, etc) without even writing down or seeing the equation.

He's also doing triple-digit subtraction, simple multiplication and division; he's able to balance simple fractions, and he, of his own accord, is now doing some simple algebra (10 + X = 15). He seems to have a profound understanding of the mechanics and structure of mathematics, and as a result not approaching math in a linear form - rather, he's literally "exploding" into all the disciplines at once.

My only approach to math has been quite laid back; "Math Made Simple" math blocks (nice for visual representations of base ten), marbles (sets), and flash cards for addition and subraction. In other words, I'm way out of my league here. I had expected to be able to teach up to sixth grade math without difficulty, but at this rate that will be next year.

HELP! HELP!! I can't add in my head even!!!

I'm not even gonna get started on the reading or science end of this - I went in the bathroom the other day to find out what was taking so long, and the little man was sitting there reading U.S. News and World report - looking up the news on Saddam's Capture... and he understood most of it.

I'm going to have to revamp my whole approach to home-school kindergarten here... any suggestions for a math program?

[dandelion]

Correction: the blocks are by "Math-U-See", not "Math Made Simple"...

[Carry_Okie]

I'm sorry to say, I invented my own math program because I was unhappy with Saxon. My 11-year-old is now doing college calculus. Her sister isn't far behind. The key was to use algebra to teach arithmetic. There is no text of which I know that can do what I did, althouth the "Keys Series" of workbooks is a start.

[hsmomx3]

I have heard that Singapore Math was pretty good. I have never seen it but I trust others here can guide you in the proper direction.

[PMCarey]

any suggestions for a math program?

Singapore Math. It'll challenge your kid, but it sounds like he would love it.