Self-pacing and logically presented, the Developmental Math program is virtually self-instructional once your child can read. With this approach, children can progress at their own pace, according to their ability, instead of having to "put in" the requisite nine years of math before beginning higher-level math (algebra and beyond). This program is wonderful for naturally independent learner, and teaches any child to take responsibility for his learning.

Presentations are extremely clear, with staightforward progression of instruction from the concrete level to the abstract, then mastery through practice, and, finally, application with word problems. Each skill is taught in bite-sized pieces and built upon slowly. No manipulatives are needed. Rather, pictures are substituted for live objects (this may hamper some younger or highly kinesthetic children who need to touch and feel to understand). Also, some concepts normally taught in math programs are not taught in Developmental Math because they do not fit into their normal progression of skills. These concepts are time (including calendar time), temperature, weights and measurement. Money is touched upon, but not handled in depth, and depictions are of American coinage. The levels are ungraded, and students should be able to complete about three levels per school year.

Each level book is divided into units, which culminate with a unit test to assure mastery. Parent guides included with levels 1-9 contain general suggestions for the parent's role in the course, a brief overview of skills taught in previous levels showing the current level in context of the program, a lesson-by-lesson explanation of skills presented, and answers to exercises. Teacher guides included with levels 10-16 are copies of student worktexts with answers shown.  A diagnostic test is taken after students complete each level. 

Placement of your child in the program depends on his/her skill level. Your student should be placed at the level of skill that he is already familiar with but has not totally mastered. If you would like more direction, Placement Tests are available for purchase in a Complete Pack or Levels.

Upon completion of level 16 your child will be ready for Algebra ½ or Pre-Algebra from a more traditional publisher if you are planning on switching prior to college level math courses. If this format works well for your student, Levels 17-20 are available for those ready to move on to Algebra and Geometry using the same format as the lower levels of this series. 

By 7th or 8th grade your student should have completed level 16, and the 4 remaining levels can then be completed in sequence. Levels 17 and 18 are Algebra I and II, levels 19 and 20 are Geometry I and II.