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Why is math instruction so language intensive?

I have two children with language processing disorders, so I have wondered this many times.  It never occurred to me there could be an alternative: I thought that was just the way it had to be.

Last Spring, I stumbled upon this video.

I was intrigued.

I went over to the website and looked at the demo.  First, I tried the demo myself and then let the kids try it out.  They took to the program quickly and I was impressed with how the kids kept at it even when it seemed hard.  After further deliberation, I decided to give ST Math a try.

The program is more expensive than I would prefer, but I found a discount over at homeschool buyer’s co-op which made it doable.  I have been using ST Math with four kids this year.  Two with language difficulties, and two without.  I received a “school” account that lets me monitor their progress.  I set up a “class” for each grade level I wanted to use.  In my case that was K, 4, 6, and 8.

I am continually impressed with the ways in which ST Math teaches concepts providing a solid foundation.  The concepts are presented is systematic, thorough, incremental way: step by step, little by little.  Concepts are presented in multiple ways very gradually.

The lessons learned in the program are so valuable.  So much more than simply mathematics:

• ST Math encourages the kids to keep trying. (they are simple games and puzzles, after all.)
• “Failure” is not something to avoid or fear, it is simply a natural part of learning and growing.
• That’s OK, I can try again.
• Learning can be hard work.
• Working hard can be so satisfying.

So.  After six months of using ST Math, I can report that they have all done well with it.  They don’t always love it, but they have done well.  However, my 6-year old has EXCELLED.  I will do a separate post sharing his amazing successes soon.

Honestly, the more I see of it, the more I like it.