by Joan A. Cotter, Ph.D

The beginning level math lessons are best started at age 5, or even sooner, before the child develops a reliance on counting strategies. An early start also helps the child understand quantities based around 5s and 10s. Level A for 4- and 5-year-olds includes place value to the hundreds, addition facts to 10, and some basic geometry. Worksheets are included.

Manipulatives for Level A may be purchased as a set (includes those needed to complete Levels A to E) or separately at www.alabacus.com

Required Manipulatives: Al Abacus Standard, Place Value Cards, Abacus Tiles, Cards (6 special decks for games), Geoboards, Colored Tiles, 4” Geared Clock, Tally Sticks, and Yellow is the Sun CD.