It's become popular to excoriate "fuzzy math" programs, but here's my view: they help the student to "think mathematically" instead of just "doing math." Ideally, a math program would combine EM principles with some drills/memorization. I have seen my kids make a very easy transition to higher math concepts - much easier than I remember in my school days of drill, drill, drill. I think there is an important role for concept-based math programs. They may need to be supplemented with math facts, however, to have the best results.