your budget allows you to purchase only one math software package for your children ages 5-8.Which one of the following packages would probably be best for this age group?

(a) ages 4-7
(b) ages 6-9
(c) ages 7-9
(d) ages 6 and up

That depends upon the children. If they tended to be slow -- go with (a). Probably (b) would be best.

To determine which math software package would be best for children ages 5-8, we need to find the package that includes this age range or has the closest match.

The options are:
(a) ages 4-7
(b) ages 6-9
(c) ages 7-9
(d) ages 6 and up

From the given options, the package that includes the age range 5-8 would be the most suitable choice.

Option (b) "ages 6-9" seems to be the closest match since it covers the age of 6, which is the lower end of the desired age range. Additionally, it would provide room for growth as the children reach the upper end of the age range.

Therefore, the best choice for your children aged 5-8 would be the math software package for "ages 6-9".