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Common questions relating to Wonderkidz study

How does the abacus help in mental maths or mental arithmetic?

Abacus is a tool that works with your sensors to create a picture memory, through process and order, thereby, helping a child visualise numbers and related calculations. At each stage, a child progresses and with practice, the child’s ability to do mental arithmetic increases as does the speed and accuracy. This results in increased confidence and a passion for maths.


Studies have shown that the children who have used the Soroban abacus in their past could perform arithmetical calculations more quickly and comfortably when they are grown ups. This is due to the fact that they have the golden rule of calculating long figures with the help of broken packets of that figure in their minds and it allows them to perform more conveniently in the later stage of their life.

Who Can Enroll in these Programs ?
What is the right age for the child to start learning Abacus?

Student of all ages and maths proficiency are welcome to start their Abacus learning at any age or learning level. Any child who is able to promptly recognise and write numbers from 0 to 9 can start learning. Ideally the child that knows how to read and write their numbers 1 to 99 fluently is a good candidate for being introduced to Abacus math. In our experience 4+ (closer to 5) years is a good age since at that age they have the motor skills to manipulate the Abacus with confidence.

What is the Difference Between WONDERKIDZ Abacus and Kumon?

It seems that there are as many unique teaching and tutoring approaches out there as there are children! And while many of them are similar, it’s important to make distinctions between the various styles – especially when your child’s education is the concern! Because everyone learns differently, as a parent it’s important to understand your child’s learning style in order to help them overcome their struggles. Kumon and Abacus are frequently associated but they are quite different. They both have Asian roots and require practice but the similarities end there. Here’s a quick breakdown of each style.


Abacus
  • Ancient tool, originating from China and known as the Soroban in Japan
  • Taught in a small group environment and students work together to encourage one another
  • Increases child's concentration
  • Improves problem solving skills
  • Utilizes eyes, ears and fingers to activate child's senses
  • Teaches mental calculation
  • Focus on math and problem solving skills

Kumon
  • Developed in the 1950s but Japanese educator, Toru Kumon
  • Learn on an individual basis
  • Requires high involvement from parents
  • Improves Memorization
  • Daily practice with worksheets
  • Does not teach mental calculation
  • Focus on math, reading and writing

If you were considering either Kumon and Abacus for your child, make sure you understand the approaches and which one may be best suited for your child. There’s nothing worse to see your child struggle to learn something in school to only struggle more outside of school. Help encourage them to succeed by getting them in an environment where they can succeed and see incremental growth.


Nothing fuels the fire for math than discovering you can be a math person! If you’re not sure Abacus will help your child, sign up for a free preview of our class – there’s no obligation to register! Come meet with us, find out what we’re all about and see if Wonderkidz is the right fit for your child.

As a parent, am I required to learn the Abacus to help my child?

Absolutely not. When your child starts at Wonderkidz, we provide a complete kit including the Abacus. As a parent you do not need to learn the Abacus to help your child succeed. We only request that you commit to carving out time for your child to focus on doing their homework.

I have never used the Abacus, how can I help my child with his, her homework?

We are focused on each child’s personalised learning and encourage him/her to do their homework independently so we can assess their skills and identify where they may need help. We only request that you commit to carving out time for your child to focus on doing their wonderkidz abacus homework and encourage their learning journey.

Don’t calculator and computer make the Abacus obsolete?

Our teaching philosophy around mental calculation leverages the Abacus to give our students essential problem solving skills, helps build their focus, persistence and sense of accountability. These are life skills that help them compete and succeed in today’s and tomorrow’s world – and no calculator or computer can teach these skills.

My child doesn’t like maths. How can wonderkidz Abacus help?

At Wonderkidz abacus your child will rediscover math.Our abacus focussed teaching helps your child to be confident and most importantly , enjoy math.

Is it true that Abacus can help improve my child’s communication and skills across other subjects?

Yes. Focus , persistence, time management, organisation and self driven accountability are key to your child’s success in the classroom and beyond. Wonderkidz parents see their children be more engaged with their homework across subjects, better prepared for tests and be overall more confident and successful than their peers.