3.1.A Fun Way to Learn Numbers

Learning numbers becomes fun and easy when children use the finger abacus. Instead of using beads or rods, kids use their own fingers to show numbers, count, and do simple math. This method is especially helpful for young learners because it connects visual learning, physical movement, and number sense.

This lesson from ExcelAbacusIQR – Suman TV Krishna teaches kids (in Telugu) how to count from 0 to 99 using only their fingers, along with simple exercises to improve speed and accuracy.


What Is a Finger Abacus?

A finger abacus uses the fingers of both hands to represent numbers.

  • The thumb and four fingers of each hand work like beads on an abacus.

  • Children learn to show numbers by raising or lowering specific fingers.

This method gives children a clear picture of numbers and helps them learn faster.


1. Zero Position: The Starting Point

Every lesson begins with the zero position:

  • Thumb inside (folded)

  • Four fingers relaxed

  • No finger is raised → Number 0

This position helps children understand that all counting starts from zero.


2. Counting from 0 to 9

The video teaches children how to show numbers from 0 to 9 using simple finger movements.

Example:

  • 0 → No fingers raised

  • 1 → One finger raised

  • 2 → Two fingers raised

  • 9 → All four fingers + thumb according to the pattern

Children are encouraged to repeat and practice these positions until they become comfortable.
Mastering 0–9 is very important because these digits form all other numbers.


3. Counting in Tens (10, 20, 30...)

After learning single digits, children move on to tens.

Using the left hand:

  • 10 → One finger up

  • 20 → Two fingers up

  • 30 → Three fingers up

  • 40 → Four fingers up

  • 90 → All tens fingers raised

Understanding tens helps children read and build larger numbers easily.


4. Combining Tens and Ones (11–99)

Now children use both hands:

  • Left hand = Tens

  • Right hand = Ones

Examples:

  • 11 → 1 ten + 1 one

  • 22 → 2 tens + 2 ones

  • 37 → 3 tens + 7 ones

  • 50 → 5 tens

  • 90 → 9 tens

  • 96 → 9 tens + 6 ones

Children practice making all numbers from 11 to 99 by combining both hands.

This step teaches:

  • place value

  • number formation

  • quick mental visualization


5. Advanced Counting Techniques

As the class continues, children learn:

  • how to count beyond 90

  • how to quickly show random numbers

  • how to switch between tens and ones

  • how to self-correct finger positions

These skills prepare children for addition, subtraction, and mental math later.


6. Interactive “Show Me” Exercises

The instructor asks children to quickly show numbers such as:

  • 20

  • 50

  • 75

  • 98

  • 90

Kids respond by positioning their fingers correctly.
This builds:

  • speed

  • accuracy

  • confidence

  • fast recognition of numbers

The exercises are fun and help children stay engaged.


7. Why the Finger Abacus Works So Well

The finger abacus builds a strong math foundation because it uses:

Visual learning (seeing the finger patterns)

Physical learning (moving fingers)

Mental learning (connecting to numbers)

It helps children:

Strengthen Brain Power

Finger movements activate both sides of the brain, improving thinking speed.

Improve Number Sense

Kids understand how numbers are built — tens + ones.

Increase Focus and Memory

Daily practice helps children remember number patterns easily.

Enhance Fine Motor Skills

Finger movement strengthens muscles needed for writing.

Build Confidence in Math

Children feel proud when they can show numbers quickly and correctly.


8. Tips for Parents and Teachers

You can help children master the finger abacus by:

✔ Practicing daily for 5–10 minutes

✔ Asking “Show me…” questions

✔ Encouraging counting objects (toys, coins, pencils)

✔ Using rhythm and clapping for number patterns

✔ Giving small challenges like:

  • “Show me 57”

  • “Show me 99”

  • “Show me 43”

Children learn best when lessons are fun and interactive.


Conclusion

The Finger Abacus Class 2 lesson gives children a powerful tool to understand numbers from 0 to 99. By combining finger movements with counting practice, kids develop:

  • strong number concepts

  • fast recognition

  • mental math skills

  • confidence in early arithmetic

With regular practice, children move from simple counting to quick and accurate mental calculations.

Keep practicing… keep counting… and enjoy learning with your fingers!


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