Many Nigerian parents invest in after-school coaching to improve their child’s maths performance. But when results remain the same, frustration sets in. The real question becomes: Abacus training vs extra lessons — which truly improves maths skills?
The answer may surprise you.
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, we often meet parents who say:
“My child attends extra lessons but still struggles with basic calculations.”
Let’s break it down clearly.
What Extra Lessons Usually Focus On
Extra lessons typically:
- Repeat classroom teaching
- Provide more homework
- Prepare students for specific exams
- Teach formulas and procedures
While this can help with syllabus coverage, it does not always fix weak number foundations.
If a child still counts on fingers or struggles with multiplication speed, adding more lessons may not solve the core issue.
What Abacus Training Focuses On
Abacus training strengthens:
- Mental calculation speed
- Number visualization
- Concentration
- Memory
- Logical thinking
Instead of memorising steps, children train their brains to process numbers mentally and quickly.
According to research shared by Harvard University, cognitive skill development improves problem-solving and working memory. Abacus training directly develops these cognitive abilities.
That is the key difference.
The Foundation Problem Many Parents Miss
Imagine building a house.
If the foundation is weak, painting the walls again (extra lessons) will not fix it.
Abacus works on the foundation — number sense.
When number sense improves:
- Maths becomes easier
- Confidence increases
- Exam anxiety reduces
- Speed improves naturally
This is why many abacus-trained children perform better even without attending multiple extra lessons.
Speed + Accuracy = Confidence
One major advantage in the abacus training vs extra lessons debate is speed.
In Nigerian schools, children often struggle because:
- They run out of time
- They doubt their answers
- They panic under pressure
Abacus students solve calculations mentally within seconds. That speed builds confidence.
And confident children perform better.
Research from the American Psychological Association shows that competence significantly reduces academic anxiety.
Which One Should You Choose?
Extra lessons may help with:
✔ Exam revision
✔ Past questions practice
But abacus training helps with:
✔ Brain development
✔ Strong number foundation
✔ Mental speed
✔ Long-term confidence
The smartest approach is not “more lessons.”
It is better training.
Why SIMA Abacus Is Different
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, we focus on:
- Structured mental maths development
- Practical brain training techniques
- Progressive skill building
- Fun and engaging learning
We don’t just prepare children for the next test.
We prepare them for lifelong mathematical confidence.
Schools are also welcome to partner with us to train their students.
When comparing abacus training vs extra lessons, remember this:
Extra lessons repeat information.
Abacus transforms the brain.
If you truly want lasting improvement in your child’s maths performance, it starts with strengthening the foundation.
Contact SIMA Abacus today to enroll your child and watch the transformation begin.