Many Nigerian children are not failing maths because they are incapable—they struggle because they lack confidence. This growing math confidence gap in children often begins early, shaped by fear of mistakes, classroom pressure, and repeated failure.
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, abacus training addresses this hidden problem by rebuilding how children see themselves as learners.
What Is the Math Confidence Gap?
The math confidence gap is the difference between a child’s ability and their belief in that ability. Many children:
- Understand concepts but freeze during tests
- Avoid maths questions out of fear
- Believe “maths is not for me”
Once this mindset forms, performance drops—even when the child is capable.
How Traditional Classrooms Can Increase Fear
In many classrooms, speed is rewarded more than understanding. Children who answer slowly are often:
- Corrected publicly
- Compared with faster classmates
- Labelled as weak in maths
Over time, this creates anxiety, not learning.
How Abacus Training Rebuilds Confidence
Abacus learning works differently. At SIMA, children:
- Learn step-by-step without pressure
- See numbers physically, not abstractly
- Build accuracy before speed
Each correct calculation reinforces a sense of “I can do this.” Confidence grows naturally through success.
Small Wins That Create Big Belief
One powerful feature of abacus training is progressive mastery. Children advance through levels gradually, celebrating small wins along the way.
This approach:
- Reduces fear of mistakes
- Encourages persistence
- Builds academic courage
Confidence in maths often spills over into other subjects.
From “I’m Bad at Maths” to “I Can Figure This Out”
Parents frequently report that after abacus training, their children:
- Volunteer answers in class
- Attempt difficult questions confidently
- Approach homework calmly
This shift in mindset is often more valuable than speed or grades.
Why Confidence Matters Beyond Maths
A confident child is more likely to:
- Ask questions
- Solve problems independently
- Believe in their ability to learn
Abacus training supports long-term academic success, not just exam performance.
Why SIMA Abacus Makes the Difference
At SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy, we focus on:
- Child-paced learning
- Encouraging instruction
- Confidence-first progress
Our goal is not just to produce fast calculators, but confident thinkers.
Call to Action
Want your child to overcome fear and gain confidence in maths?
Enroll your child at SIMA Abacus & Mental Maths Academy today
Curious to see how it works?
Book a free trial class and watch confidence grow.