This is kind of a strange question...

We've been using RightStart for our 6 yo son now for six months and LOVE it. While I wouldn't say my son enjoys math, he no longer views it as drudgery but finds it bearable, understandable, and occasionally fun! It is priceless to see how proud he is of himself when he really *understands* the material.

Anyway, my question is: how do you concisely (in a few sentences) explain how RightStart is different from other programs? I really want to let others know about it, but I feel I give a less-than-adequate description of the way it works. When I tell others the program focuses on visualizing 5s and 10s rather than counting, I get the sense that people don't understand what I'm talking about or why that's important. Could you give me a few bullet points on how to quickly and accurately explain what makes the program unique?

Thanks!

RightStart is a full comprehensive elementary curriculum that teaches children for understanding using the ALabacus and math card games. The AL abacus is grouped in 5's and 10's because our brains are programmed to see in groups of 5's and 10's. This is because our first manipulatives are our hands that are grouped in 5's and 10's. Other curriculums that use maniputlatives do not have the AL abacus therefore children can not "see" quantities because anything over 5 a person has to count or group before being able to tell you what quantity the number is.

I'd also suggest that you copy off the article on the web titled Math and the Young Child. It's a good read for anyone who might be interested in the RightStart philosophy. Also, as I'm sure you already do, give them the website and invite them to read through it.

Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm about RightStart with others.

Sincerely,
Rosine