I’m looking to supplement our math program at  home.  We’re using a combo of Singapore and Calvert Math as our skeleton, but I feel we’re missing just the basic repetition and drilling of  facts.  I’ve  heard good things about Kumon’s program, so I thought I’d do a little research myself.

This morning I took the kids to the center.  They give a free testing and evaluation of where your child stands academically based on their screening process.  Thankfully, my kiddos did well, and I received some helpful feedback from the owner. We discussed their program, their fees, the benefits, and so forth.  I also brought up the subject of offering homeschoolers a discount on their services since we can utilize their program during the day.  Waiting to hear back from the owners if they will be able to offer such…

What I found comical was this..

As we were walking into the center, my oldest son noticed the Kumon insignia and commented how unhappy the child’s face looked.  His thought made me laugh.  Seems like the company would have thought to use a better facial expression other than one that shows a child either appearing angry, bored, or indifferent.  The face certainly did not impress my son.

There are many Kumon reviews out there.  Here’s my take:

Pros-helpful for remedial work, classroom setting may help boost your own child’s motivation, sure to do the work since you’re paying a great deal of money, potential to boost memory of math facts

Cons-driving time, expensive

Can I produce the same thing at home for a fraction of the cost?

I went to Barnes and Nobles and purchased their mass-marketed workbooks, so I’m trying those at home for now along with some other things.

Either way, the key to it all is parental involvement no matter what route you choose!

Ugh-now, where’s that cloning machine?!