Listening sums
Listen to the teacher read numbers and follow the rhythm to practise calculation.
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Programme
From real beads to a mental abacus.
Ages 4–15 · 2–8 per class · 2 hours weekly · English & Mandarin
Understand first, then practise
Numbers take a tangible form.
Children first learn place value and how to use an abacus, then gradually practise mental arithmetic. Teachers suggest a starting level suited to each child.
Try the abacus: click a column to change its digit, or use the keyboard's up and down arrows.
Explore numbers hands-on
Move a bead. Watch the number change.
Click a column to change that digit.
Each upper bead represents five.
More than one way to practise
Listen, look, say and try.
Visual sums
Read numbers and questions, then respond using an abacus or mental arithmetic.
Flash cards
Practise observation and recall with briefly displayed numbers.
Read-aloud practice
Join in by reading numbers aloud, responding and practising.
See numbers clearly
Start with real beads, then gradually picture an abacus in the mind.
Listen, look and practise
Practise following and responding through listening, visual sums and flash cards.
Notice your progress
Reach small goals and collect stamps, adding a little motivation to keep trying.
Nurture curiosity and learning habits
A good start,
at your child's pace.
The early and primary years offer opportunities to follow instructions, take turns and finish small tasks. Children can try from age 4. Readiness matters as well as age; there is no single age after which learning becomes impossible.
Is your child ready to start? →Questions about maths learning
How does abacus learning fit with school maths?
Abacus learning focuses on representing numbers and practising calculation. School maths also involves concepts, reasoning and word problems. Both can be learnt together, with room for different problem-solving methods.
What is its value beyond speed?
Lessons offer hands-on practice, listening and visual responses, and regular repetition. Research has found benefits for arithmetic performance, but this does not mean every child will gain higher intelligence or better results in every subject.
Read the three-year randomised study ↗Is there a single golden age for learning?
Age-appropriate activities let growing children practise attention, self-control and memory. Curiosity and regular practice matter more than a universal age deadline.
Explore Harvard's child development activity guide ↗Before you enrol
A few helpful answers.
What ages can join?
Our Setia Alam centre welcomes children aged 4–15. Talk to us about your child so we can suggest a suitable starting level.
Can a child join without abacus experience?
Yes, you can enquire first. We will discuss your child's experience and suggest a suitable starting point.
Is the trial lesson free?
The trial is free and lasts 30–60 minutes. Parents may observe and materials are provided. Please contact the centre to confirm a time beforehand.
Which languages are used in class?
We teach in English and Mandarin. Contact us to ask about classes in your preferred teaching language.
What are the class times and fees?
Schedules and fees depend on the learning level and available classes. Ask on WhatsApp for current options. Centre opening hours do not mean a trial is available at every time.
Can I walk in to enquire?
Yes, walk-in enquiries are welcome during opening hours. For a trial lesson, please confirm a time on WhatsApp first.
How many children are in each class?
We teach in classes of 2–8, for 2 hours a week. Ask us about a class suited to your child's starting level.
Are make-up lessons arranged for holidays?
The centre director may arrange make-up lessons for special holidays as appropriate. Contact the centre to confirm your class arrangements.