Math

In the past, I've gotten Spectrum Math workbooks for both girls. I don't know why I bothered after the first one, because I really don't feel that they work for us. Topics are introduced, you get one page of practice per concept, then a quiz. No more is said about it until unit tests. As far as I'm concerned, math is something that needs frequent practice and repetition, at least for my kids.

Enter Saxon Math. Saxon is "based on the teaching principles of incremental development, continual practice and review, and cumulative assessment." I like the way the lessons are presented, too. Saxon is certainly more expensive, but I feel that it's worth it. And it's no great shakes as far as manipulatives go, at least not that I've seen. There are other programs that lean more in that direction, but for solid math skills, Saxon is the way to go for us.

Dated song that is still really great for walking: Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation."