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FAQS

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We believe that every child has a unique learning style. At JAMS, our personalized coaching will help your child succeed within the classroom and beyond.

What is the difference between JAMS, Kumon and other coaching/tutorial centers?

Apart from being popular in China and Japan, these two teaching styles are very different in nature. Kumon focuses on learning through repetition, memorization and discipline. Abacus focuses on visual learning, problem solving and organization. Kumon also focuses on math, reading and writing. Abacus strictly focuses on mental math and a life skill of seeing the world through a mathematician’s eyes. You can read our blog post about the difference here.

What is the right age for a child to start learning the Abacus?

Students of all ages and math proficiency are welcome to start their Abacus learning at any grade or learning level and our Abacus Online options are a great way to start. Ideally, a student should be old enough to promptly recognize and write numbers from 0 to 9.

What kind of calculations does the Abacus help my child with?

Both basic and advanced math problems can be solved with an understanding of the Abacus, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, square root, cube root and others. The mental math calculation also helps children with elementary advanced mathematics at all school levels, including algebra and college-level math.

I have never used the Abacus. How can I help my child with her/his homework?

Our teachers are focused on each child’s personalized 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 JAMS homework and encourage their learning journey, which is made easy with Abacus Online.

Is it true that concentration skills are improved by learning the Abacus?

Yes, absolutely! Here is a good example: When you work on addition and subtraction with 10 two-digit numbers, you have to move Abacus beads approximately 30 times. If you make even one mistake, your answer is incorrect. So it is vital to remain focused, which enhances concentration skills.

My child doesn't like math. How can JAMS help?

At JAMS and in our Abacus Online classes, your child will rediscover math. Our personalized teaching helps your child be confident and, most importantly, enjoy math.

Can JAMS help my child to be ahead of peers in math?

Online Abacus classes will help your child excel in grade school and beyond. A vast number of our students have earned recognition such as TAG, and every single one is at least 2 grade levels ahead of their peers. We have a diverse group of students from across the world who outshine their peers not only in math but also in other disciplines using the skills that they learned at JAMS. Even if you or your spouse are not good at math, Abacus Online can still help your child excel.

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

Absolutely not. When your child starts at JAMS or our online Abacus classes, we provide a complete kit (including the Abacus) for a one-time fee. 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 JAMS homework and encourage their learning journey.

Don't calculators and computers make the Abacus obsolete?

Our teaching philosophy around mental calculation both in person and with Abacus Online leverages the Abacus to give our students essential problem-solving skills and to help 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.

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

Yes. Focus, persistence, time management, organization and self-driven accountability are all keys to your child’s success in the classroom and beyond. JAMS and Abacus Online parents see their children become more engaged with schoolworks in all subjects. Their children are better prepared for tests and become more confident and successful overall than their peers.

How do I prepare for a classroom observation?

To help you prepare and make the most out of this activity, read our comprehensive guide about classroom observation.

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