Learning math happens much earlier than formal arithmetic concepts for young children. For example, toddlers instinctively know what is more and what is less, and would choose four candies over two candies.
Since young children learn better by touch and feel, use of visual aids like abacus help both parents and children enjoy math learning. It also helps young children grasp concepts of addition and subtraction, thus laying a strong foundation for better math learning during the school years.
What is an Abacus?
The abacus is a really old counting device that has been used all over the world, especially in Asia, for several centuries. It consists of a frame with several wires and beads. It is also called a counting frame. Children can get a head start in learning mathematics by moving beads from one side of the wire to the other.
Sorting, Color and Shape Identification With an Abacus
There are many fun games that can be played with an abacus that are also educational for children. For example, the parent can ask the child to mimic a pattern. Move four beads to the left of the first wire and six on the right. Ask the child to match that pattern on the remaining wires. This can be repeated for different groupings.
The abacus has beads of different colors on different wires, which can help children identify colors. The beads can also be arranged to form shapes like triangle, diamond, square and other shapes.
Counting, Adding and Subtracting Using an Abacus
Move a few beads on one side of the wire, and ask the child to count how many beads are on the left and how many are on the right. The child can also count from 1 to 100 by moving the beads on all the ten wires. The child can learn math concepts by figuring how different combination of numbers (like 9+1, 8+2 and so on) can yield a sum of ten.
Simple Subtraction, Multiplication and Division and Alphabet Patterns Using an Abacus
To learn subtraction using an abacus, use the first wire for the first number, the second wire for the second number and have the child answer it on the third. For example, move seven beads to one side on the first wire. Move three beads to the same side on the second wire. Have the child perform a simple subtraction by counting the difference between the two wires. Multiplication and division can also be done by the same concept.
Alphabet patterns like A, I, E, L are easy patterns to create on the abacus.
There are many other activities using an abacus that are both fun and educational. Both parents and children can use their imagination to find newer ways to play and learn math using the abacus counting frame.
Related Reading
Have a sensitive child? Parenting the Highly Sensitive Child provides insights on dealing with seemingly shy children. Anne Desantis, a parenting coach shares her views on the importance of having fun with children in How to Raise Children Using the Law of Attraction and Practical Parenting Tips Based on LOA.
Subha Ekambaram - I'm fascinated by the self healing processes of the human body and the alternative methods that accelerate it. I like to be present where ...
Join the Conversation