Discover RightStart Mathematics, a proven, hands-on
homeschool math curriculum designed to help children truly understand, master,
and love math. Created by Dr. Joan A. Cotter, RightStart Math replaces
traditional counting with powerful visualization strategies and the innovative
AL abacus, building deep number sense from the very beginning.
Unlike rote-memorization programs, RightStart emphasizes
conceptual understanding through multi-sensory activities, math card games,
early place value work, and non-counting addition/subtraction methods inspired
by Asian approaches. The program uses levels rather than strict grade levels,
allowing flexible placement via the free downloadable placement test below. RightStart Math
is perfect for homeschool families with children who learn differently or need
to catch up/fly ahead.
Key features of RightStart Math:
Heavy
focus on visual and tactile learning with the AL abacus as the primary
tool
Engaging
games that make practice fun and effective
Spiral
yet mastery-oriented progression that prevents gaps
Minimal
reliance on worksheets; high teacher involvement with guided lessons
Levels
A–F build core elementary skills (K–5/6 equivalent), while G and H extend
into pre-algebra, geometry, and some trigonometry
Whether your child struggles with math anxiety or thrives on
hands-on discovery, RightStart Mathematics fosters confidence and mathematical
thinking that lasts. Browse levels, bundles, and manipulatives below, or
download the placement test below to find the perfect starting point for your
homeschool journey.
These icons are designed to help you quickly understand and learn important information about our products.
Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
