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Last Updated: January 2026
If your child has ever stared blankly at a math worksheet, Math-U-See might be your answer. This curriculum takes a radically different approach. Rather than rushing through topics, students physically build math concepts with colored blocks. Then, they keep building until understanding clicks into place.
I’ve helped dozens of families use Math-U-See over ten years. The change I see in struggling students still amazes me. It ranks among the top picks for hands-on learners. But is it right for you? This review covers the blocks, video lessons, and real costs. You’ll learn who does well with it and who should look elsewhere.
Quick Take: Math-U-See is a mastery-based, hands-on math curriculum that excels at building conceptual understanding through physical manipulatives. It’s particularly effective for visual and kinesthetic learners, struggling students, and families who value deep comprehension over racing through grade levels.
Best For: Visual/kinesthetic learners, students with math anxiety, families seeking hands-on instruction
Price: $90-120 per level (reusable blocks additional)
What is Math-U-See?
Math-U-See is a complete K-12 math program. Steve Demme created it. He’s a former math teacher and homeschool dad. He built it for his own kids. The program launched in the 1990s. Today, over 500,000 families use it. Cathy Duffy Reviews calls it a Top Pick for hands-on learners. I’ve seen great results with it for years.
What sets Math-U-See apart is its distinctive use of colored manipulative blocks. Importantly, these aren’t optional add-ons—they’re central to the teaching method. Students literally build math problems with physical blocks. Afterward, they transition to abstract numbers on paper.
The program uses a mastery approach. Each level focuses on one main concept. Students don’t move on until they’ve truly got it. This differs from Saxon Math, which revisits topics often. See our guide on spiral vs mastery math for more.
How Math-U-See Works
The Math-U-See system has four core components that work together to create a complete learning experience.
Video Lessons
Steve Demme teaches each concept in short video lessons. Typically, these run 5-20 minutes. His style is patient and clear. Notably, he explains not just how to solve problems but why the methods work. Meanwhile, parents can watch alongside their children, which helps you learn how to reteach concepts when needed.
I recommend parents watch the first few videos together with their child. You’ll pick up Steve’s teaching techniques quickly. Older students can then watch videos independently. This frees up parent time considerably. The videos demonstrate exactly how to use the blocks for each new concept. Wondering how this compares to other video-based curricula? See our Teaching Textbooks review for another approach to video instruction.
Instruction Manual
The teacher’s manual provides lesson-by-lesson guidance. Specifically, it includes teaching tips, answers to all problems, and help for when students struggle. As a result, even parents who feel uncertain about math can teach confidently. I’ve seen parents who “hated math” become excellent teachers using this manual.
Student Workbooks
Each lesson includes practice pages with straightforward layouts. Furthermore, problems appear in black and white with plenty of space to work. Each concept has seven worksheets for practice, and additional exercises are available online if needed.
Moreover, the systematic review section brings back previously learned material. This maintains skills over time and addresses a common concern with mastery programs. Otherwise, students might forget earlier concepts while focusing on new ones.
Manipulative Blocks
The Integer Block Kit is the heart of Math-U-See. Color-coded blocks show different values. Green units equal ones. Blue blocks equal tens. Red squares equal hundreds. Students build problems with these blocks. They see math happen right before their eyes.
The kit has over 130 durable pieces. Each block is sized just right. Ten ones equal one ten. Ten tens equal one hundred. This helps kids see place value. The kit also has fraction overlays for the Epsilon level. These make fractions easy to grasp.
This hands-on method makes math real. When a child builds 24 + 38 with blocks, they see regrouping happen. They don’t just memorize steps. One mom told me her son finally got place value after years of struggle. He built 100 with ten blue bars. The lightbulb moment showed on his face.
Math-U-See Level Structure
Math-U-See uses Greek letter names for its levels. Each level focuses on one main math concept:
- Primer: Introduction to math, counting, and number recognition
- Alpha: Single-digit addition and subtraction
- Beta: Multi-digit addition and subtraction with regrouping
- Gamma: Multiplication facts and applications
- Delta: Division facts and applications
- Epsilon: Fractions
- Zeta: Decimals, percentages, and applications
- Pre-Algebra: Negative numbers, exponents, and algebraic foundations
- Algebra 1: First-year algebra
- Geometry: Geometric concepts and proofs
- Algebra 2: Advanced algebra topics
- PreCalculus: Trigonometry and pre-calculus preparation
- Calculus: Differential and integral calculus
Each level has 30 lessons. Most students do one lesson per week. So each level takes about one school year. But kids move at their own pace. Some finish faster. Others need more time. That’s okay.
Suggested Weekly Schedule
Based on my experience with families, here’s a schedule that works well:
- Monday-Wednesday: New lesson with video, blocks, and practice pages
- Thursday: Additional practice worksheets for the current lesson
- Friday: Systematic review of previous concepts
This gives steady practice without stress. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics says regular practice boosts math retention.
Key Advantages of Math-U-See
This curriculum offers distinct benefits. Below, you’ll discover what makes it work so well for certain learners.
1. Builds Genuine Understanding
The blocks make abstract math visible. Kids can see and touch the concepts. When students struggle with borrowing, they take apart a tens block. Suddenly, it makes sense.
This builds lasting grasp of math. Research from the Institute of Education Sciences confirms this. Blocks help students truly get math operations. Kids who learn with Math-U-See often excel at mental math. They know how numbers work. Cathy Duffy notes this deep grasp helps with higher math too.
2. Excellent for Struggling Learners
Math-U-See has become a rescue program. It helps kids who’ve hit walls with other curricula. The blocks reach children who can’t learn from textbooks. About 93% of Americans feel some math anxiety. If your child has math anxiety, this approach can help rebuild confidence.
I’ve seen this myself. A family came to me with a 10-year-old who cried during math. After three months, she asked for extra problems. The blocks gave her new confidence. Many parents report similar changes in the first semester.
The AIM program helps students with big skill gaps. See our best math curriculum for struggling students guide for more options.
3. Low Daily Time Requirement
Math-U-See lessons are focused. Videos take 5-20 minutes. Worksheets take 15-30 minutes. Most families finish daily math in under an hour. Short, focused sessions often work better for retention.
The structure also means less planning for parents. You know what to do each day. Just open the book and go. The National Center for Education Statistics says homeschoolers usually perform at or above grade level. Programs like Math-U-See help.
4. Works for Multiple Learning Styles
The program reaches three learning channels at once. Students watch demos. They hear explanations. They handle blocks. This multi-sensory approach helps concepts stick.
In particular, visual learners benefit from seeing math with colored blocks. For more options, check our best math curriculum for visual learners guide.
5. Reusable Materials Save Money
The block kit works from Primer through Pre-Algebra. If you have several kids, this one purchase covers years. Only workbooks need to be replaced. I know families using the same blocks for their fourth child.
Assessment and Progress Tracking
Knowing how Math-U-See handles tests helps you track your child’s growth.
Built-In Assessments
Each level has tests at regular points. Students take a test every three or four lessons. These check mastery before moving on. There’s also a final test for each level.
Mastery Checkpoints
Math-U-See stresses mastery before moving on. If a student scores below 80%, they review and retake. This stops gaps from forming. I’ve seen that students rarely struggle with topics they’ve “passed.”
Record Keeping for Homeschoolers
Tests provide proof for state needs. Many families keep scores in a portfolio. The level system also helps when sharing progress with relatives or co-ops.
Potential Disadvantages to Consider
Of course, no curriculum is perfect for everyone. Below are honest drawbacks to weigh before choosing Math-U-See.
1. Higher Upfront Investment
Starting Math-U-See costs more upfront. You’ll need the block kit ($80) plus level materials ($90-120). This exceeds many competitors. But the blocks are reusable. Multiple kids can share them. So the cost spreads out over time.
Think about the long-term cost per child. Don’t just look at year one. See our best free math curriculum options if budget is your main concern.
2. Not Aligned with Common Core
Math-U-See has its own order of topics. It doesn’t match Common Core standards. Students taking state tests may see unfamiliar topics. They might also miss topics taught in school.
If you plan to return to public school, this could create gaps. Long-term homeschoolers don’t worry about this as much.
3. Limited Challenge for Advanced Learners
The slow pace helps struggling learners. But it may bore gifted students. The curriculum lacks extension activities. There are no extra challenging problems.
Advanced learners might finish levels fast. They may need extra enrichment. Programs like Beast Academy offer puzzle-based challenges for math-loving kids.
4. Single Representation Method
Math-U-See shows only one way to solve each problem. The blocks work great for many students. But some children need different approaches to grasp ideas.
The curriculum teaches one solution strategy per problem. Singapore Math teaches several approaches instead. Some students may struggle to apply block-based learning in other settings.
5. Pre-Algebra Transition Concerns
Some families say Pre-Algebra doesn’t fully prepare students for Algebra 1. Math-U-See created the Bridge program to fix this. It fills gaps and builds algebra readiness.
If your student struggles at this point, try the Bridge materials. They provide extra support before high school math.
How to Evaluate If Math-U-See Is Right for You
Before buying any curriculum, check the fit carefully. Here’s how to tell if Math-U-See works for your family.
Try Before You Buy
Math-U-See offers free sample lessons on their website. Watch a few videos with your child. Does Steve’s teaching style click? Many homeschool conventions have Math-U-See booths. You can handle the blocks there. Some libraries and co-ops also have sample materials you can borrow.
Assess Your Child’s Learning Style
Ask yourself: Does my child learn by seeing and touching? Or by reading and listening? If your child fidgets during lessons, Math-U-See may be a good fit. The same goes for kids who crave hands-on activities. Children who struggle with abstract concepts often do well with blocks. But if your child excels with workbooks and dislikes manipulatives, look at other options.
Consider Your Teaching Style
Some parents like open-and-go curricula. Others prefer flexibility. Math-U-See is structured. The videos do the heavy teaching. Many parents like this. But if you want to teach your own way, it might feel limiting.
Math-U-See Pricing and Materials
Knowing the full cost helps you budget. Here’s what you’ll need to buy:
Required for Each Level
- Universal Set: $135 (includes instruction manual, instructional videos, student workbook)
- Student Workbook Only: $40 (for additional children)
Manipulatives (One-Time Purchases)
- Integer Block Kit: $80 (used Primer through Pre-Algebra)
- Fraction Overlay Kit: $50 (needed for Epsilon)
- Algebra/Decimal Inserts: $25 (needed for Zeta and above)
Sample First-Year Budget
For a new homeschooler starting with one child in Alpha:
- Alpha Universal Set: $135
- Integer Block Kit: $80
- Total: $215
Later years cost only the Universal Set ($135). Or just the workbook ($40) if you’re reusing materials from an older sibling.
Who is Math-U-See Best For?
After looking at this curriculum closely, certain students stand out as ideal matches.
Great fit if:
- Your child learns best through hands-on activities – The manipulative blocks are central to every lesson
- Previous math programs haven’t clicked – The alternative approach often reaches students who struggled with traditional methods
- Math anxiety is an issue – The patient, step-by-step progression builds confidence
- You want mastery over speed – The program prioritizes deep understanding over racing through grade levels
- You have multiple children – Reusable materials provide excellent long-term value
- Your child is a visual or kinesthetic learner – The blocks and demonstrations cater to these learning styles
May not be ideal if:
- Your child excels at math and needs challenge – The curriculum may feel too slow or repetitive
- You need Common Core alignment – The scope and sequence differs from public school standards
- Your student prefers variety in instruction – The single-method approach may feel limiting
- Budget is extremely tight – The upfront costs exceed some alternatives
Math-U-See vs Alternatives
How does Math-U-See compare to other popular homeschool math curricula?
| Feature | Math-U-See | Saxon Math | Singapore Math |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach | Mastery with manipulatives | Spiral with incremental review | Mastery with bar models |
| Per-Year Cost | $135-215 | $80-100 | $80-120 |
| Grade Range | K-12 | K-12 | K-8 |
| Video Instruction | Included | Optional (DIVE) | Not included |
| Hands-On Materials | Central to program | Optional | Recommended |
| Parent Involvement | Low to moderate | Moderate | Moderate to high |
| Best For | Struggling/hands-on learners | Independent learners needing repetition | Strong problem solvers |
For detailed comparisons, see our articles on Math-U-See vs RightStart Math and our comprehensive best homeschool math curriculum guide.
Getting Started with Math-U-See
If you’ve decided Math-U-See sounds promising, here’s how to begin:
Step 1: Take the Placement Test
Math-U-See offers a free online placement test on their website. Don’t skip this step. Placing your child correctly matters a lot with mastery programs. Gaps build on gaps. Start where your child actually is. Not where you think they should be.
Step 2: Order Your Materials
You’ll need the Universal Set for your child’s level. Get the right manipulative kit too. First-time users should also order the Integer Block Kit. Get it no matter what level you start at.
Step 3: Watch the Videos Together
For the first few weeks, watch the videos with your child. This helps you learn the method. You’ll be ready to answer questions or reteach when needed.
Step 4: Establish a Routine
Most families do best with daily math practice. A typical session has three parts. First, watch the new concept video. Then practice with blocks. Finally, complete the worksheet pages.
Sample Daily Lesson Flow
Here’s what a typical Math-U-See day looks like:
- Watch the video lesson (5-20 minutes) – Student observes Mr. Demme demonstrate the concept with blocks
- Practice with manipulatives (5-10 minutes) – Student recreates problems using their own block set
- Complete worksheet pages (15-30 minutes) – Written practice reinforces the concept
- Systematic review (10 minutes) – Problems from previous lessons maintain earlier skills
Total time: 35-70 minutes depending on the student and level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Math-U-See worth the money?
Is Math-U-See worth the money? Yes, for the right families. It works well for visual and kinesthetic learners. Kids who struggled with other programs often thrive here. Families with multiple children get great value. The blocks are reusable. The videos are included. These offset the higher upfront cost. Not sure about your child’s learning style? Our complete math curriculum guide can help.
What grade levels does Math-U-See cover?
Math-U-See covers kindergarten through calculus. The 13 levels use concept-based names. They range from Primer through Calculus. There are no grade numbers. Students move at their own pace no matter their age.
Is Math-U-See religious or secular?
Math-U-See is secular in content. The math lessons have no religious references. The company is Christian-owned. Some optional extras reflect that. But the core curriculum works for any family.
How long do Math-U-See lessons take?
Most students complete daily math in 35-60 minutes. Video lessons run 5-20 minutes. Worksheet practice takes 15-30 minutes. Younger students and beginners often finish faster.
Can I use Math-U-See without the blocks?
Technically yes. But you’d lose the main advantage. The blocks aren’t optional add-ons. They’re central to the teaching method. Families who skip the blocks find it less effective. If you won’t use blocks, look at curricula designed for abstract learning.
Final Verdict
After reviewing Math-U-See and working with many families, I can say it earns its reputation. It’s a go-to curriculum for hands-on learners. It excels with struggling students too. Video instruction, physical blocks, and mastery-based progression create something unique. It reaches children who haven’t thrived with traditional methods.
The curriculum isn’t perfect for everyone. Advanced learners may need more challenge. Families who need Common Core alignment should look elsewhere. The upfront cost is higher than some options. But long-term value is strong.
For families who want deep understanding, Math-U-See delivers. It’s not about checking grade-level boxes. It’s about real comprehension. Why move to the next grade if your child doesn’t understand? When your child finally “sees” why math works, you’ll get it. You’ll understand why so many homeschool families love this program.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ready to try Math-U-See? Visit the official Math-U-See website to take the free placement test and explore their materials.
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