I think that Kumon is a fantastic idea. I have a daughter struggling with Maths but as she is a cathedral chorister her day is so long that we cannot fit in Kumon classes. Those I know who have done it are thrilled with the results. Unlike schools they realise that you can';t build on a house without foundations and so they repeat and rpeat the basics from 2 x 2 upwards and the kids don't move on to the subsequent stages until thay are completely secure in any one level. It should be compulsory in all schools!
Very much a focus on basics but don't help children to identify the process required to solve a word problem. Better tp do as suggested and work on tables and number bonds (6+7, 4+3 etc) yourself. (Or herself)
I worked for Kumon for 3 years as a supervisor and marker of work (the reason I left was to complete a PGCE) I attended three times a week, as did most of the children, although they could choose how many sessions they wanted to attend.
I have to say the process of repetition works very well both for disadvantaged kids and those who excel at Maths (and English, some Kumon centres offer both).
In response to a previous post that Kumon doesn't help with word written maths problems/equasions. Kumon has recently reveiwed this at KS3 & 4 work to include word problems. Kumon is an invaluable project that only serves to reinforce good schooling.
thanks loubou, my friend actually sends her kids now and is full of praises (hers were struggeling). my son was just accepted into a fab private school, but unfortuately even with the bursary we couldnt afford it! do you think that kumon could help him? he's a clever cookie, which is why he got in to said school, but his state school dont do anything extra with him, would it be beneficial for him to attend kumon? or should i do work books with him at home? thanks