What is Abacus and How It Can Be Beneficial for Kids

Colors are probably the most recognized elements that children use to learn as soon as they develop intellect. Since colors imprint on a child’s mind easily, it allows children to remember things easily. Abacus is one of those.

It makes sense that colors are used to teach a lot of subjects to kids, including Maths. One such example of using colors to make Maths more comprehensive and enjoyable is Abacus.

What is Abacus?

Abacus is derived from the Latin word ‘abax,’ which means a flat surface or a table. Abacus has been used throughout history to make calculations easier. 

It is a framed wooden object with strings of plastic or beads that allows the user to calculate large sums easily. In earlier times,  used to be in the shape of a flat board with stones or shells for calculations. The origins of the Abacus can be traced back to China, Russia, and Europe.

How Can Abacus Help Kids?

Abacus has a range of benefits for kids, especially during their early years of education. It has been known to increase memory retention in kids. It is also known to develop observational and focusing skills in kids.

Let’s take a look at some of the biggest advantages of Abacus for kids:

• It helps develop strong memory 
• Stimulates different parts of the brain, allowing kids to develop their cognitive and motor skills.
• It helps improve visual thinking 
• Allows children to improve their concentration skills
• Removes the fear of Maths from children
• Make children more confident in their approach to Mathematics

How to use Abacus to Teach Kids?

Abacus can be used in a range of ways to teach kids the basics of Mathematics and other important skills. There are a number of games and activities for different kids in different age groups that one can learn from Abacus classes for kids. 

In this article, we will be discussing a few simple Abacus games that you can easily teach your kids. All you need is a simple, colorful Abacus and your time.

Let’s take a look:

Match My Move Game

• Place all the beads of each row on one side of  have the other side of the row empty.
• Ask your child to watch closely as you slowly move a bead to the other side. Ask your kid to repeat the step. Make sure they do the exact same thing you did.
• Go to the next row and move a few more beads and ask your child to do the same. Make sure they observe you closely and are moving the exact number of beads as you.
• Keep repeating the process with slight variances. 
• To make the game interesting, move the beads in random order.
• If the child develops an interest in it, advance the game by shifting sides.
• Make sure to make your moves slowly, so your kid is able to easily catch up to you. 

Counting Game 

• Move the beads from right to left or left to right slowly. Make sure your child is able to observe your moves.
• Once you have moved the beads, ask your kid to move the exact number of beads to the other side and count them one by one.
• Get them to count the total number of beads by moving all the beads in the center.

Abacus is a very interesting game once your child develops a knack for it. They can use it to play, add, subtract, multiply, and learn overall Mathematical elements with ease. Not to mention, Abacus teaches all these concepts and certain high-end ideas in a playful and enjoyable way.

If you want them to develop an interest  you will have to participate in various Abacus-related activities with them. You can also make a daily routine for your kids to get their daily dose of Abacus games. Ensure that you are not forcing it on your kids but offering an enjoyable platform for them to express themselves and learn new skills.