Why Early Abacus Learning Is Better Than Extra Lessons for Primary School Children

 

Many Nigerian parents invest in extra lessons to help their children excel in school. While these can help in the short term, early abacus learning for children delivers long-lasting benefits. Abacus doesn’t just teach maths—it builds mental calculation skills, concentration, and confidence that last a lifetime.

At SIMA Abacus, we see how children who start early outperform peers relying solely on extra lessons.

What Is Early Abacus Learning?

Early abacus learning introduces children (ages 4–8) to a simple counting tool with beads. By manipulating the beads, children visualize numbers and perform mental calculations.

Unlike extra lessons, which focus on memorising answers or completing worksheets, abacus training develops the brain’s ability to think critically, solve problems quickly, and remember numbers effortlessly.

Benefits of Abacus Learning Over Extra Lessons

1. Faster Mental Calculations

Extra lessons may teach tricks or shortcuts, but abacus-trained children perform calculations mentally without relying on tools.

2. Stronger Concentration

Abacus exercises train both sides of the brain, improving attention span. Children stay focused longer in school and at home.

3. Confidence in Maths

Early exposure removes the fear of numbers. Children become confident, not just in maths but in all subjects requiring logical thinking.

4. Better Retention

Unlike extra lessons that often focus on short-term memorisation, abacus training enhances memory, helping children retain concepts longer.

Early Start Matters

Research shows that the younger a child starts abacus learning, the easier it is to develop mental calculation and problem-solving skills. In Nigeria, parents who start their children early often notice:

  • Improved performance in school tests
  • Faster completion of homework
  • Reduced anxiety around maths

Extra Lessons vs Abacus: A Quick Comparison

Extra Lessons Abacus Learning
Focus on worksheets Focus on mental skills
Temporary memorisation Long-lasting understanding
Teacher-dependent Child develops independence
Slow thinking improvement Faster thinking and calculation
Limited brain training Trains both brain hemispheres

Abacus gives children a skill they carry for life, while extra lessons only temporarily improve scores.

Real Impact at SIMA Abacus

At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, children aged 4–8 start with foundational abacus lessons and quickly:

  • Move from counting on fingers to mental maths
  • Solve maths problems with confidence
  • Enjoy learning numbers and logic

Parents consistently report that their children prefer abacus sessions over extra lessons, enjoying the challenge and seeing results faster.

Who Should Start Early Abacus Learning?

  • Children aged 4–8 years
  • Learners struggling with concentration or maths
  • Bright children needing mental agility
  • Parents seeking long-term academic advantage

If your goal is to give your child a lasting edge in maths and learning, early abacus learning is far more effective than extra lessons. It develops mental skills, builds confidence, and turns learning into a fun, lifelong habit.

Give your child the head start they deserve—start abacus learning today.

Visit www.simaabacus.com to enrol or learn more.