12 Best Elementary Homeschool Math Curriculum For Special Needs

Homeschooling can offer a tailored and individualized educational experience for special needs learners, including in the subject of math. Finding the right homeschool math curriculum for students with special needs can make a significant difference in their learning journey. Here are our favorite homeschool curriculum options for math that cater specifically to special needs learners:

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Math-U-See – Homeschool Math Curriculum

Math-U-See is a popular homeschool math curriculum program known for its systematic and structured approach to teaching math concepts. This curriculum uses manipulatives and visual aids to help students understand abstract math concepts. Math-U-See was developed specifically for kids with dyscalculia. Of course, it can be used with neurotypical learners when the expectations are adapted for a faster pace. For special needs learners, Math-U-See offers flexibility and adaptability for a variety of learning needs. Math-U-See is appropriate if you have a very slow-paced learner. Check out the homeschool curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/math-u-see-primer-level-up-set/

RightStart Math

RightStart Math is a comprehensive mathematics program designed for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It aims to provide a hands-on approach to math education, which helps students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. The program is known for its use of games, manipulatives, and visual models to help students engage with math in a meaningful way. It also focuses on problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and developing a strong number sense. RightStart Math is best if you have a learner who struggles with concept development. Check out the homeschool curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/rightstart-mathematics-level-a-book-bundle/

Math Lessons for a Living Education – Homeschool Curriculum for Math

Math Lessons for a Living Education is a comprehensive math curriculum designed to engage students in a way that goes beyond traditional rote memorization. The program incorporates real-life scenarios and practical applications of math concepts, helping students see the relevance of what they are learning. Through story-based lessons, students are not only taught math skills but also learn problem-solving strategies and critical thinking skills. This program does not use expensive math manipulatives, but relies on items that can be found around the house. Math Lessons for a Living Education encourages students to think creatively and apply their knowledge in different situations, equipping them with a strong foundation in math that will be beneficial in their everyday lives. Check out the homeschool curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/math-lessons-for-a-living-education-k/

Rod and Staff Arithmetic

Rod and Staff Arithmetic is a math textbook program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in traditional mathematics. The program emphasizes mastery of fundamental arithmetic skills through a systematic approach that includes drill and practice, problem-solving exercises, and review. Students learn facts and processes such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals, on simplified, organized pages with more than average white space . The homeschool curriculum program also incorporates biblical principles and character-building lessons to instill values such as diligence, honesty, and responsibility. With its clear explanations, organized structure, and focus on building mathematical proficiency, Rod and Staff can be a predictable approach for kids who need a consistent presentation.

Purposeful Design Mathematics

Purposeful Design Mathematics curriculum is a Christian elementary math program. Its rigorous and engaging approach to teaching mathematics focuses on developing critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Purposeful Design Mathematics has a scope and sequence similar to Abeka; however, it is designed with consistent use of manipulatives, graphic organizers, and a balance between calculation drill and mathematical thinking. The homeschool math curriculum is designed to help students see the relevance and application of math in real-world situations, making learning more meaningful and enjoyable. Purposeful Design Mathematics curriculum is structured to meet the needs of diverse learners; although it has a faster pace than many students with dyscalculia may handle in a typical school year. This can be adjusted in the 7th and 8th grade years once a firm foundation has been established prior to introducing algebra. Check it out from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/5146/

MCP Math – Homeschool Math Curriculum

Modern Curriculum Press Math is a traditional worktext program that has a heavy emphasis on calculation practice. The explanations are simple and relevant. MCP Math is a moderately paced program, that can be good for students who need to develop fluency in facts and processes. MCP Math takes a straight-forward approach, so some students can take their math workbook and practice with little teacher input until a new process is introduced. Check out this homeschool curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/mcp-mathematics-k-homeschool-kit/

Horizons Math

Horizons Math is a spiraling curriculum where a new concept of math is introduced and previously taught skills are practiced in every lesson. Sections for each skill are identified by colored backgrounds. The overall approach is traditional math. Horizons Math homeschool curriculum is moderately paced, so the grade level is in line with traditional grade levels. If your child needs frequent review to maintain concepts and skills, Horizons may be a good fit. Check out this homeschool math curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/5158/

Spectrum Math – Homeschool Curriculum

Spectrum Math is considered a supplemental math program; however, core math skills are included without distracting pictures or cluttered pages. The newest publication of Spectrum Math is a secular workbook program and aligned with state standards and provides a balance between calculation practice and word problems.

Channies One Page a Day and Page a Day Math Series

Channie’s One Page a Day and the Page a Day Math Series are two different math practice programs that have a heavy emphasis on calculation practice from addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions. Either of these programs are great for kids who are learning or maintaining basic facts and need on-going practice. Check out the homeschool math curriculum from the UL Shop here: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/page-a-day-multiplication/

Developing Number Concepts – Homeschool Math Curriculum

If you have a student who struggles in building a conceptual framework of how math works, you may want to take a look at Developing Number Concepts by Dale Seymour Publications. The books are arranged by math concepts and skills rather than by grade levels. They also are not workbooks for kids, but lessons for teachers and parents to select for hands-on, concrete math activities that help to build math concepts and generalize to basic facts and processes. This homeschool math curriculum program requires heavy teacher input and preparation.

SRA Connecting Math Concepts

While the title of this series sounds like another program that is solely about math concepts, the program actually uses a direct instruction, scripted approach to guiding students step-by-step through conceptual understanding, calculation practice of basic facts, and mastering of processes. The pace is on the slow side for students who need intense instruction and guidance to either maintain focus or to master skills. SRA Connecting Math Concepts was designed specifically for kids with special learning needs.

Homeschool Math Curriculum – Individual Math by ILP Objectives

Sue Hegg uses many different math programs depending on the age and needs of each student. Finding one specific program that will meet the needs of a student with multiple needs in developing math skills can be nearly impossible. For nearly every student, it helps to select a main homeschool curriculum and supplement with additional materials for the weaker areas of learning math. Because of the complexities in helping a struggling learner, we recommend creating an Individual Learning Plan of objectives to monitor for math. You can find our Individual Learning Plan goals and Math Skills Checklist in the shop: https://uniquelearnersllc.com/product/individual-learning-plan-goals/

If you ever have questions or need a brief assessment, contact Sue. We are always happy to help homeschool parents of unique learners!

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