Which Math Program is Best for 6-Year-Olds: Kumon vs Mathnasium vs Beestar

When considering math programs for young children, parents often find themselves at a crossroads. This particularly holds true for 6-year-olds, who are in the early stages of their mathematical journey. In this article, we will explore the methodologies of Kumon, Mathnasium, and Beestar, to help you decide which program might be best suited for your child's learning style and needs.

Introduction to Kumon and Mathnasium

Two of the most well-known math programs for young children are Kumon and Mathnasium. Each program has its unique approach to teaching math.

Kumon

Kumon is a traditional and repetitive approach, where students are given sets of worksheets to complete at their own pace. This method emphasizes repetition and mastery of fundamental skills, which is particularly beneficial for students who thrive on consistent review and structured practice.

Mathnasium

Mathnasium, on the other hand, follows a structured personalized learning plan. They tailor their programs to each student's strengths and weaknesses, using a combination of assessments, exercises, and ongoing support to build math proficiency. This approach is designed to help students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and better problem-solving skills.

Beestar: An Online Supplemental Math Program

In addition to the traditional Kumon and Mathnasium programs, there is Beestar, an online platform that provides math and educational resources for students. Beestar focuses on both understanding mathematical concepts and improving problem-solving abilities through interactive online exercises. This program is designed to cater to students from kindergarten through high school, offering math quizzes and worksheets that are tailored to specific grade levels and adjusted based on individual performance.

Recommendation for 6-Year-Olds

For 6-year-old students, I recommend neither Kumon nor Mathnasium. At this age, children need more help with reviewing the same concepts in different ways. Kumon's style of repetitive practice may increase a student's lack of interest in the subject, while Mathnasium focuses more on personalized support, which may not be as critical for younger children who need more foundational building. Instead, I suggest considering supplemental programs like Beestar, which offers a more varied and interactive learning experience.

Personal Insights from Kumon and Mathnasium

Through my experience as a student of Kumon for nine years and my younger brother's participation in Mathnasium, I have observed the strengths of both programs. Here are some key insights:

Kumon: A Strong Foundation for Academic Success

Teaches a Strong Work Ethic: Kumon's approach instills a strong work ethic, teaching students to regularly complete homework even during breaks from school. This preparedness is crucial for future academic success. Encourages Higher-Level Thinking: The Kumon method encourages students to understand concepts independently, promoting higher-level thinking skills that are transferable across subjects. Students learn to solve problems on their own, even when the teacher doesn't have time to cover every concept in detail. Provides Conceptual Understanding: While some may argue that Kumon doesn't teach concepts, I have found that the tutors are always willing to help students understand their work. For instance, when I struggled with calculus and pre-calculus, my teacher took time out of their schedule to help me thoroughly grasp the concepts. Larger Time Slots: Kumon offers more flexibility with larger time slots, allowing students to stay at the center as long as needed to complete their work and fully understand each concept without the constraints of time limits.

Mathnasium: Personalized Learning with Support

Structured Personalized Learning: Mathnasium offers a personalized learning plan tailored to each student's strengths and weaknesses. This ensures that students receive the necessary support to build their math proficiency. Flexible Schedule: Mathnasium's hourly-based payment system means that students can focus on completing their work within the allotted time. If they haven't finished or fully understood a concept, they can return for additional sessions. Interactive Exercises: Mathnasium's use of assessments, exercises, and ongoing support helps students build a strong foundation in math, ensuring they are prepared for higher-level concepts.

Conclusion

Each math program has its strengths and weaknesses. For 6-year-olds, Beestar offers a dynamic and engaging approach that can help build a strong foundation in math. For older students, both Kumon and Mathnasium can provide valuable support, with Kumon excelling in instilling a work ethic and encouraging higher-level thinking, and Mathnasium excelling in personalized, structured learning and ongoing support.

Parents should consider their children's specific needs and interests when choosing a math program. Research both options thoroughly, talk to other parents who have experience with these programs, and try out trial classes to find the best fit for your child.