The Math with Confidence program includes:

• Short, hands-on, and fun lessons
• Lots of games, pretend activities, and real-life contexts
• Complete coverage of all grade-level math topics
• Open-and-go format so you can pick up the book and start teaching
• Friendly, approachable notes and tips that help you grow as a teacher
• Checkpoints at the end of each unit that help you decide whether to spend more time on the current unit or move on to the next one
• Fun (but optional) picture book recommendations and real-life extension activities to help your child enjoy and appreciate math

Below, you’ll find more on the philosophy of the program, what you’ll need, and how to pick the right level. Plus, you’ll find links for specific information about each grade level (like the scope and sequence, a video overview, lesson format, and samples). I hope that having all this info will help you feel well-informed and confident as you decide what program is best for your child. If you have any more questions, just add a comment below and I’ll make sure to respond.

Wishing you all the best in your teaching! Happy Math!

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What’s the philosophy of the program? Is it mastery or spiral?

The main goal of Math with Confidence is to equip you to raise kids who are confident and capable in math. The program aims to help your child develop a deep understanding of math concepts, proficiency and fluency with fundamental skills, and a positive attitude toward math.

Deep conceptual understanding

You’ll focus on one concept at a time for several weeks so your child can build deep, connected knowledge of each new topic (also known as a mastery approach to new material.) Each new lesson builds on the previous one so your child gradually develops thorough understanding and makes connections between concepts.

Fluency with essential skills

Children need lots of practice to fully master the basics. The Math with Confidence program provides continual, ongoing review so your child fully grasps the core grade-level skills by the end of each year. (This is called a spiral approach to review, because children periodically revisit topics, just as the curve of a spiral returns to the same point on a circle.)

Positive attitude and FUN

The lessons include lots of games, pretend activities, and hands-on learning so your child enjoys and even looks forward to math time. I’ve also added weekly (optional) suggestions for picture books and math extension activities to provide a break from the daily routine and help your child appreciate how math is used in real life.

What do I need to teach Math with Confidence?

You’ll need 2-3 books to teach each grade: the Instructor Guide and Student Workbook(s).

• The Instructor Guide is the core of the program, with conversational and hands-on activities and games that teach the key skills and concepts. It’s scripted and open-and-go so you can just pick up the book and start teaching.
• The colorful Student Workbook provides written practice and review.

I’m thrilled that Well-Trained Mind Press is able to offer the program for about $50, which includes both the Instructor Guide and full-color Student Workbook. Each retailer sets their own price, so you may even be able to find it for less.

Manipulatives

Besides these two books, you’ll need a simple kit of household materials to make math hands-on for your child. You probably already own just about everything you need: counters, coins, a clock, a ruler, etc. You’ll also sometimes use household items like stuffed animals, small toys, or crayons.

Which level is best for my child?

Math with Confidence is a “middle-of-the-road” program in terms of difficulty. In general, use the grade level that corresponds to your child’s age. There’s just a few key skills that your child should have mastered before beginning. Check out this article for lots more details, plus answers to frequently asked placement questions:

• Related: How to Choose the Right Level of Math with Confidence for Your Child

Will there be other grades? Is Math with Confidence a full series?

Yes! Math with Confidence will eventually be a full program from kindergarten through sixth grade, with one new level released each year. If you use Kindergarten, First Grade, or Second Grade in the 2022-2023 academic year, you’ll be all set moving forward.