Having done many of the lessons this year, I appreciated learning the "why" behind them. Knowing the research and process that went into the curriculum gives me a foundation for going forward.
Never before have I attended such an excellent conference! Early childhood mathematics is complex. The creators of Developing Roots have developed a program that adds logistics and practicality to mathematical theory in a way that incorporates best practices and most importantly, in a way that is meaningful to young children. It is heavily researched, tested, and teach-approved. Even so, Sarah & Cheri realize the work is never finished and they’re happy to work with teachers as they work for teachers.
We just started Developing Roots this fall and the program has many strengths. Perhaps what I am most impressed with is how each and every lesson is developmentally appropriate for kindergarten children. The shelf work helps increase the fine motor skills they need across the curriculum, while simultaneously allowing them to practice the mathematical skills they need to learn in a fun and engaging way.
I loved how teacher friendly this [Developing Roots] program is. There is so much flexibility to make changes. You fit then program in your classroom, not your classroom into the program.
Sarah presented tasks that made us think. Through these tasks, administrators, teachers, and paraprofessionals engaged in the productive struggle that our students will endure each day when using this incredible resource. She continuously reminded us of the importance of helping our students remember that this uncomfortable feeling means that their brains are growing.
Similar to most districts, we strive to foster the growth of our students as mathematical thinkers and problem solvers who love math and math learning. For a long time, we struggled to find a curriculum and approach which would provide a solid foundation for our kindergarten students. We found our answer in Developing Roots. Through the challenging, hands-on, and developmentally appropriate approach to learning in this curriculum, our students are not only engaged, but also empowered as learners who are developing solid and transferrable understandings, skills, and beliefs about themselves as mathematicians. Our entire learning community could not be happier with what Developing Roots has brought to our students.
Developing Roots is the epitome of teaching math to kindergartners that really count! (HA!) This developmentally approach has reached each student in my class. I love it, the students crave it and the parents are impressed! In my 40+ years of teaching in the Midwest, East Coast, and finally the South, Developing Roots finally got it right!
The energy with both campuses was extremely positive and their feedback was equally encouraging. Donna was masterful at modeling routines and stressing the importance of looking towards big ideas and using appropriate math language. I also appreciated the way Donna spoke about integrating math into your day and not just in math class. Explaining the reason this program works and how it changes the way kids think through play. Also suggesting ways to extend activities and having us participate in the activities. I am so excited to teach this program next year.
My Kindergarten students LOVE math! The Developing Roots math curriculum has laid a wonderful foundation for them, providing amazing hands-on and engaging activities. My mathematicians have learned to be great problem-solvers! They enjoy making connections, exploring, and explaining what they have learned. The support we have been given through workshops and virtual meetings/coaching have been extremely beneficial. Sarah’s visit and the meaningful lesson were a perfect way to conclude our first year with Developing Roots.
I am obsessed with this program! My son and daughter both love it so much and I am loving it too! Math was always one of my favorite subjects and I am a bit embarrassed to say but at 40 years old, I am learning new tricks through this program. My math skills have improved and I am so happy that my children are loving math too! So grateful to have found this program!
Those two days were fantastic. When you come, you bring an energy that is contagious for all of our teachers. After going through the pandemic, I thought we needed a little spark in math, and you definitely gave it to us. You don't waste a minute and are so devoted to whatever we ask you to do. It was really fun to hear the impressions of those teachers who had never met you before. They were truly wowed and so excited about enhancing their teaching. You are one talented educator, Sarah, and we are so fortunate our paths have crossed.
When working with younger groups of kids, I think the purposeful play aspect is not only a great addition to a curriculum but absolutely necessary! I love that this math curriculum allows students to explore on their own a bit rather than just sitting them in front of a workbook
think! Mathematics provides our wide range of learners with multiple entry points for problem-solving. Students approach math as a language and are immersed and encouraged to try various strategies. They learn from one another. Sarah Schaefer's workshops with our school's Lower School teachers continue to generate excitement amongst our faculty, not just as teachers of math but as mathematicians themselves.
The true passion Sarah delivers makes my teacher's heart sing! It is so helpful to hear honesty so freely. I feel so inspired after spending valuable time practicing as a teacher and student. I am motivated by the classroom setup to run back home and make my classroom that is engaging for my students. Thank you!
I can't say enough good things about the Developing Roots math curriculum! Its lessons are engaging, hands-on, and completely developmentally appropriate for our youngest learners. Our kindergarten teachers love the lesson structure following the Explore, Practice, and Reflect model. Since starting the program last August, we have been amazed by the growth in our students" mathematical understanding. We truly believe the Developing Roots curriculum provides the perfect foundation for our school-wide math program. But the best news is... all of our students LOVE math!