Math-U-See

Math-U-See enjoys a strong reputation among homeschooling families for its hands-on approach and mastery-based methodology. Parents and educators have shared a wealth of experiences that paint a comprehensive picture of this program's strengths and limitations.

What Parents Appreciate

The single-topic mastery approach receives high praise, particularly from parents of children who struggle with focus or get overwhelmed by multiple concepts:

"Math-U-See is a good fit [for my son with ADHD]. The single subject focus is very helpful for him… This approach also keeps the daily time required down, which is ideal." Stumbling Homeschool Mom

Many parents value the video instruction component, which reduces their teaching burden:

"I love that Mr. Demme… is teaching my children the lessons." Treehouse Schoolhouse Blog

Parents consistently report that Math-U-See builds confidence in both students and teachers:

"I see both of my children gaining joy, skills, and confidence in math!" Treehouse Schoolhouse Blog

"It has given me confidence as the teacher, as well as my children joy and confidence as students." Treehouse Schoolhouse Blog

The program's real-world application through word problems receives positive mentions:

"Students have to figure out what to do… Real world math is so much more useful, so I love this." Stumbling Homeschool Mom

Math-U-See's flexibility in pacing and practice is highlighted by many families:

"If they are getting it, there is no need to beat a dead horse." Design Your Homeschool

Parents of struggling learners often report dramatic improvements:

"I switched to Math U See when my 3rd grader was counting everything and struggling... she is now solid on her facts." Design Your Homeschool

Challenges Parents Have Noted

Cost is the most frequently mentioned concern:

"The program is on the expensive side, considering it is one subject." Mommy Share Space

Some children, particularly those who need variety or quick progression, find the program monotonous:

"For someone who needs variety it can get a little boring after a while." Design Your Homeschool

Parents of advanced math students sometimes find the program lacking in challenge:

"Math-U-See may not provide enough challenge to keep your child engaged. It is especially weak in developing kids' critical thinking and problem-solving skills." Kate's Homeschool Math Help

The focused sequence sometimes means certain practical topics are introduced later than in other curricula:

"There are a few gaps… I started printing out different worksheets on subjects I felt he was ready for and he welcomes the change." Design Your Homeschool

Some children resist using the manipulatives, leading parents to question their necessity:

"Manipulatives are a big part of Math U See, but in my house they are rarely used." Stumbling Homeschool Mom

Who Thrives with Math-U-See?

Based on parent feedback, Math-U-See is particularly effective for:

• Children who need focused, step-by-step instruction
• Visual and hands-on learners who benefit from manipulatives
• Students with learning differences, ADHD, or math anxiety
• Children who have struggled with other math programs
• Parents who don't feel confident teaching math

Math-U-See might be less ideal for:

• Highly advanced math students who need greater challenge
• Children who prefer variety and get bored with extended focus on one concept
• Families on very tight budgets (though some note the long-term value)
• Students who need extensive problem-solving practice beyond calculation

Tips from Experienced Users

Parents who have used Math-U-See successfully often suggest:

• Use the placement tests rather than grade levels to find the right starting point
• Skip unnecessary practice pages once mastery is demonstrated
• Supplement with practical math skills (like telling time) if needed before the curriculum reaches those topics
• Consider adding problem-solving enrichment for math-talented students
• Allow children to watch the video lessons independently as they mature
• Look for used manipulatives or older editions to reduce costs

As one parent summarized, "I believe Math-U-See is a great program for many, but it isn't for everyone." The program's mastery-based approach, clear instruction, and hands-on methodology have helped countless children build confidence and competence in mathematics, particularly those who struggled with traditional methods. Its success ultimately depends on matching the program to your child's learning style and your family's educational priorities.