About Abacus MAP UK

Our story

Abacus MAP UK is dedicated to fostering a generation of confident, mathematically-minded children. Our programme is not just about finding the right answer; it is about the journey of the mind.

Our Philosophy: From Beads to Brainpower

The Abacus Mental Arithmetic Programme uses the tool as a launchpad. As children progress and “religiously practice,” they eventually move away from the physical tool. They begin to form mental images of the beads in their minds—this is the “MAP” in action. This transition allows them to perform complex calculations mentally with incredible speed, a skill known as Mental Arithmetic.

Frequently asked questions answered

Through the Abacus MAP, your child masters specialized mental visualization tools.

What is the suitable age group?

Abacus MAP is specifically tailored for children aged 5 to 11 (Key Stages 1 and 2). This window is the most critical period for physical and mental development, making it the perfect time to wire the brain for mathematical success.

How long does the programme take?

Because every child is unique, we allow our learners to progress at their own pace. Typically, a grade level takes 12 to 16 weeks to complete.

Will this conflict with school methods?

Absolutely not. Abacus MAP UK complements school learning. While the approach is different, the underlying logic is the same. Our students often find they have a much better comprehension of school math because they understand the "why" behind the numbers.

How much time is required?

We hold classes once a week for 90 minutes. We recommend a small commitment of just 15 minutes of daily homework to maintain the "mental image" of the abacus.

Can my child join if they are already struggling with school maths?

Yes, absolutely. The Abacus Mental Arithmetic Programme is often the "missing link" for children who find abstract school maths difficult. By using a physical tool (the abacus) to represent numbers, we provide a tactile and visual foundation that makes sense to students who struggle with traditional pen-and-paper methods. Our students don’t just memorize formulas—they develop a deep, intuitive understanding of number relationships that builds their confidence back up

What is the "Mental Image" phase, and why is it important?

The "Mental Image" phase is the core of our Abacus reckoning technique. After mastering the physical beads, children are taught to visualize the abacus in their minds. By "moving" these mental beads, they can perform complex calculations at lightning speed without any physical tools. This transition stimulates both the left and right hemispheres of the brain, improving not only maths skills but also overall concentration, memory, and spatial awareness.