Computer-based Early Learning


Computer-based math is easier
(for parents)

In the old days, if you wanted to teach quantity, you had to use flash cards. If you were following the Doman method, then you would show those cards three to nine times per day. Whether you were following the Doman or the Shichida method, you were expected to give lessons seven days a week.

Some parents follow the Doman or Shichida method, but prefer to use PowerPoint or a computer-based learning system simply because it means no more fumbling with cards (especially while trying to flash them fast enough to encourage right-brain learning). Using the computer also means you don't have to worry about keeping your cards organized, or finding a place to store them.

The advantages and disadvantages of the Doman and Shichida methods are discussed in detail in the article Flash Method. In general, one of the trickier aspects for Doman parents has been deciding which equations to show on which days (and preparing lessons accordingly, and on time). For Shichida parents, a potential source of stress comes from the fact that if more than a couple of days of lessons are missed, the teaching cycle needs to be restarted from the beginning.

The Little Math Learning System is designed to come with a year's worth of lessons preinstalled. All you have to do is sit down with your child and press play. The Little Math curriculum, meanwhile, is designed to be used on weekdays only. This means parents can take the weekends off - or use them to catch up on any lessons missed during the week.

Should you decide that the Doman or Shichida program is more to your liking than the Little Math curriculum, then you can download the lesson files you need directly from the BrillKids Forum… and then proceed to simply sitting down with your child and pressing play!



How do I make math fun for my toddler?