Many parents notice that their children start learning maths by counting on fingers. While natural, this method has limits—especially when their child reaches higher levels of maths.
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, we help children move from finger counting to powerful visual thinking, a skill that abacus transforms a child’s brain to master.
The Limitations of Finger Counting
Finger counting is a natural first step, but relying on it can cause:
- Slower problem-solving
- Difficulty with larger numbers
- Reduced confidence during tests
- Over-dependence on physical aids
Children who rely on fingers often struggle to keep up in timed exams, which is a major concern for Nigerian parents preparing their kids for common entrance exams, BECE, or WAEC.
How Abacus Training Develops Visual Thinking
Abacus learning works by turning physical bead movements into mental imagery.
Here’s how the brain transformation happens:
- Physical Interaction: Children first manipulate beads to understand numbers and operations.
- Mental Visualization: They gradually imagine bead positions in their mind, solving problems without touching the abacus.
- Cognitive Strengthening: This strengthens working memory, concentration, and mental calculation speed.
The result? A child who can visualize complex calculations mentally, rather than relying on fingers or external tools.
Parent Benefits: Why This Matters
Visual thinking through abacus training helps children:
- Solve problems faster – reducing exam stress
- Increase accuracy – fewer mistakes
- Build confidence – mastery over numbers
- Enhance focus – better attention span in class and homework
Parents often report that children who train with the abacus become more independent learners and perform better across multiple subjects, not just maths.
Scientific Insight: Brain Growth Through Mental Arithmetic
Studies show that mental arithmetic using abacus stimulates the prefrontal cortex and parietal lobes, which are responsible for:
- Logical reasoning
- Memory retention
- Spatial visualization
These skills extend beyond maths, supporting problem-solving and decision-making in everyday life—giving children a lifelong cognitive advantage.
SIMA Abacus: Where Finger Counting Ends and Visual Thinking Begins
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, children go through:
- Step-by-step abacus lessons
- Fun mental maths exercises
- Focus-building games and challenges
Every session helps them move from physical counting to mental calculation, ensuring a lasting impact on both their brains and confidence.
Next Steps for Parents
If your child:
- Still relies on fingers to count
- Struggles with large numbers or mental maths
- Gets nervous during timed tests
Then abacus training may be the key to unlocking their full potential.
👉 Enroll your child today and watch them develop skills that schools alone often miss.
Visit www.simaabacus.com to learn more.