RightStart Mathematics is a hands-on, manipulative-based math curriculum for grades K-8 that uses the AL Abacus and visualization strategies to build deep number sense and mental math skills.
What is RightStart Math?
RightStart Mathematics is a complete elementary and middle school math curriculum created by Dr. Joan Cotter, a mathematician with a Ph.D. in mathematics education. The program emphasizes visualizing quantities rather than counting, using the specially designed AL Abacus (grouped in fives and tens) as its primary learning tool. Published by Activities for Learning, Inc. since 1998, RightStart has won Practical Homeschooling's Best Elementary Math award for twelve consecutive years. The curriculum covers kindergarten through 8th grade through a leveled system (A through H) rather than grade labels, allowing children to progress at their own pace.
Key Takeaways
- Uses the AL Abacus and hands-on manipulatives as primary learning tools
- Emphasizes visualization and mental math over counting and memorization
- Fully scripted, open-and-go lessons require no advance preparation
- Practices through math card games rather than worksheets
- One manipulative set (~$210) works for all levels; book bundles ~$90-100 per level
The RightStart Approach
RightStart differs from traditional curricula in several key ways. Children learn to recognize quantities in groups of five and ten rather than counting by ones, which builds rapid mental calculation skills. The AL Abacus provides a visual and kinesthetic way to understand place value, operations, and fractions. Games replace worksheets for practice, making drill enjoyable rather than tedious. Lessons are fully scripted with margin notes about common mistakes, so parents simply read the lesson and teach without advance preparation. The approach is particularly effective for children who struggle with rote memorization or who learn best through hands-on activities.
Cost Breakdown
Honest Assessment
RightStart produces excellent results for families who commit to its approach. Children develop strong number sense and mental math skills. The scripted lessons work well for parents who aren't math-confident. However, the curriculum requires 20-60 minutes of one-on-one instruction daily, making it challenging for families with multiple children at different levels or those needing independent work time. The many manipulatives require storage space and aren't portable. Some children find the game-based practice less engaging than parents hope, and the spiral approach can frustrate students who prefer mastering one concept before moving on.
The Bottom Line
RightStart Math excels at building conceptual understanding and mental math skills through hands-on, visual learning. The upfront investment in manipulatives pays off over years of use, and the scripted lessons make teaching manageable. Families with one child who learns kinesthetically and a parent available for daily one-on-one instruction will find RightStart highly effective. Those juggling multiple children, seeking independent work, or preferring workbook-style practice should consider alternatives. Many families use RightStart for early levels (A-C), then transition to other curricula for upper elementary.
