Is anyone using Base 10 blocks or Cuisinair blocks with Math U See,  instead of buying the Math U See Manipulatives?  If so, does it work fine? 

Thanks!

momx2

It should!  I used to have some Cuisinair blocks as well as the Math U See manipulatives, and the only thing I can think of that might be different is maybe the colors of the blocks.  They might actually be the same colors, but I can't remember.  Also, you would need to check and see if they have a similar amount of each, for example, the Math U See set has at least 4 of the 100's squares.  I am thinking that my Cuisinair block sets didn't have as many of each kind and that may be why I ended up with both kinds. 

I just posted that I'm willing to trade all my Math-U-See manipulatives.  If you are interested. 

PM me and let's see if we can work out a deal.   I'm willing to trade them for some credits. 

Thanks,

Naomi

Cuisinaire is a flat block it has nothing to count. We liked the MUS blocks as they have bumps to count that correlate to the number it is. 2 bumps = 2. With Cuisinaire the child memorizes the color means =2, other color = 3, etc.

Of course while working with MUS blocks the kids, over time, memorize the color to the number but, in the beginning it can be confusing IMO.

Anyone looking for MUS books or supplies should visit the MUS swap.

Cuisinaire rods are different colors than Math-U-See and they are a little smaller. I like MUS because they actually can be put together to build. My kids like them best to play with, too. I don't think using the Cuisinaire rods with MUS curriculum would work very well in the early grades especially.