I am looking into the Math-U-See Alpha set for next year. Is it imporant to use the MUS manipulatives or will unifix cubes, base ten blocks, etc. work just as well?
We created our own with foam boards. DD measured and counted out the proper size and numbers needed and they worked great!
We have used MUS from Primer through Gamma (almost to Delta). I would recommend getting the MUS blocks. Even my Gamma kiddo still uses them when a new concept comes and they are different than base 10. You could use unifix I suppose, but my kids have quickly memorized which number is which color and this has helped for everything from math facts & regrouping to telling time & place value. I get that you don't want to get something you won't use, but you will use these.
I am *so* happy to have gotten the MUS blocks...it has helped my DD seeing the colors and having that visual cue to follow along with Mr. Demme when we watch the DVD. I can see making your own, too...just make sure you make them the same colors, so you get the benefit of having the similar colors and cues.
It makes all the difference doesnt it! DD and Ds both did that with our foam home made ones, it really made it come to reality
