Abacus classes for kids have picked up so much momentum in the last few years that many parents often ask me the underlying reason for its success as compared to numerous other Math courses available. As a chief trainer of Mathcruise I have been teaching Abacus for more than a decade now, and I am happy to share my insights in this article today.
If you look around, you will realize that in most cases children struggle with Maths at some point in time and the reasons are generally revolving around Fear of Maths that may arise due to many factors. In my opinion, the most important reason why fear of Maths starts building is the lack of a solid foundation in the initial years when a child starts to learn Maths in primary school.
The education system does not seem to focus on building the number concepts in an effective way, and in fact I have seen schools have started to introduce word problems in Maths so early when kids are not even strong in arithmetic calculations. This rush to run fast in the race with other schools often removes focus from quality, and hence leaves many children behind. Especially the kids who are shy will not ask the doubts from the teacher, and gradually that gap keeps widening. But how do we solve this problem via Abacus? And before talking about Abacus, let us understand what is number sense is and why is it important to be strong in Maths.
What Is Number Sense?
Number sense is the ability to understand the value of numbers and how they relate to each other. For example, a child with good number sense knows that 98 is close to 100, that 5 + 5 is the same as 10, and that 20 is double of 10. This basic logical understanding helps children solve maths questions with logic instead of only depending on cramming, or memorizing the steps blindly.
In initial years of learning as a toddler and in kindergarten, number sense is one of the most important foundations for Maths success. Children who understand numbers clearly are clearly better prepared for all kind of arithmetic calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and also the advanced aspects like the fractions, and word problems. This is why parents often look for activities that improve number sense in children, and Abacus training is one of the most effective options which has been proved scientifically as well by modern science.
How Regular Abacus Practice Can Strengthen Children’s Number Sense
Every parent wants their child to feel confident with numbers. But confidence in maths does not come only from memorising tables or solving long practice sheets. It starts with something deeper and basic called number sense which we already understood above.
Let us see how Abacus classes for kids help develop a strong number sense which helps a child to notice patterns, relate numbers to each other, and think flexibly while solving problems since every Math problem makes use of numbers. When children have strong number sense, maths feels less scary and more meaningful.
- Abacus classes for kids helps children see numbers, touch numbers, and understand how numbers work by practicing on a physical tool which has beads and each number is represented by manipulating the position of those beads. This provides the kids with a real feeling for numbers and they are able to relate to numbers in a much better way. Instead of seeing numbers only as symbols on paper, children can move beads and watch quantities change. This makes maths more real. As an example when a child moves five beads and then adds three more, they can clearly see how 5 becomes 8. This simple movement builds a strong connection between quantity and number.
- With regular practice over time, children begin to visualise numbers in their mind, which develops mental maths abilities as well as boosts concentration. This is why Abacus learning is often called Mental Maths. Children start solving sums by imagining the abacus in their mind. This supports mental maths for kids because they are no longer just counting on fingers or guessing answers. They are learning to visualise numbers and calculate without depending on a paper or a pen. This phenomenon is almost unbelievable and you should look at some demo videos of our young Mathcruise champs (as young as 5 years) who are solving complex addition, subtraction, multiplication questions mentally like geniuses.
Key Benefits of Abacus classes
- Stronger mental calculation skills since kids are able to do all kind of calculations without relying on a paper or a pen
- Improved focus and concentration: Abacus learning needs high attention. Children have to listen, look carefully, move beads correctly, and follow steps. This regular practice tremendously improves concentration, patience, and listening skills
- Strong visual memory: Abacus training encourages children to remember bead positions and number patterns. This strengthens visual memory and helps them solve problems mentally.
- Higher confidence in Maths: Many children fear maths because they feel lost while solving sums. Abacus trained children get correct answers, and feel proud and motivated. This positive feeling can reduce math anxiety and build a stronger interest in learning.
How to find the best classes to learn Abacus online?
Well, the trick is quite simple actually. As long as you do not fall into the trap of big brands or huge advertisements and focus on basic things, you will find many good teachers around. This can also help you Choose the Best Online Abacus Classes for Kids based on the teacher’s experience, teaching style, and the needs of your child.
- Instead of interacting with only the marketing or sales person of the company, ensure to talk to the actual Abacus teacher who will train your child to learn Abacus online. Discuss his teaching methodology, the challenges he usually faces with young children in online classes and how he overcomes those challenges. This short discussion can be an eye opener and you will surely be able to gauge whether the teacher has authentic experience or not
- Check the online Google reviews by past and present parents on the online portal of the teaching school. Google reviews are the most trusted and authentic source of feedback in today’s digital world and every trainer (including us) takes pride in displaying them prominently on our website, since it genuinely builds trust among parents.
- Check if the books and exams are all structured clearly or not. A good Abacus trainer would have a clearly defined curriculum across different levels that parents can track at all times.
These few simple steps and homework will ensure that you find the right place for your kids to learn Abacus online. If you do this at the right time before enrolling, I am confident that you will love the wonderful results that Abacus has in store for you. Happy Abacus learning.
