Switing math programs...what level now?!

[hmschooling]

We are using Lifepac Math 2 this year for my 1st grader, and its a little blah for her and I'm finding its not her style. We are going to switch to either Horizons or Singapore. I don't know what level to get for her in either of those. There are gaps...BIG gaps between LP2 and Horizons or Singapore 2. Even some things are covered in H or S in level 1 that isn't touched until grade 3 in LP. I don't know where to start to keep from missing and to keep from boring her with review. Not to mention, I can't afford to buy several levels. Any advice where to start in either of those after LP2??

[Lily]

What about a math program that's more incremental? I understand you want to use one of the two, but if you can find a better fit elsewhere, why not?

[hmschooling]

What others would you suggest?
She is an ADHD/gifted child...the conceptual math tends to be a better fit for her(that's what Singapore is). Horizons is computational and she's also pretty good with that.

She is not good with repetitive, spiral math....Lifepac. She doesn't get into the manipulative based math like Saxon. Being ADHD you'd think she'd prefer it, but she is a kinesthetic learner (she just needs to move a lot while doing it) and needs to hear and see. Singapore uses very good concrete pictures in the lessons. Horizons is "attractive" and both are challenging. She does enjoy doing work on the computer, but at this time, we just can't afford the computer-based curriculum. I'm not sure what else fits her style.

[Lily]

We're using Math U See right now for my kinesthetic learner. The books are divided more traditionally (Alpha works on mostly addition skills, Beta on subtraction...). There's not only manipulatives but a video teacher.

It's expensive, but I would suggest getting the demo cd and checking out what they have on Ebay.

There's also Miquon Math, which is quite a bit cheaper and is very popular. It's more exploratory than MUS and is said to be good for gifted children. It does spiral some, so take a look at the scope and sequence. There are also examples available.

Shiller Math is also incremental and a variation of what my youngest, highly gifted child is using. It's Montessori based, so there are hands on activities to explore math but no new concept is introduced without a firm grasp on the last.