25/03/2026
Kumon is not about stopping at basic calculation.
Basic calculation is only the starting point.
As Toru Kumon said, “The first goal is equations. The second goal is high school mathematics and calculus.”
That is why Kumon learning goes far beyond addition, subtraction, multiplication and division:
fractions, algebra, equations, factorisation, functions, and eventually calculus.
Today, many people feel calculation is less important.
Some even believe that since calculators are always available, mental calculation no longer matters.
But as Toru Kumon also emphasised, “Calculation is not limited to simple arithmetic.”
A calculator gives answers — it does not build thinking.
Mental calculation trains concentration, working memory, number sense, and accuracy.
Without that internal foundation, higher-level mathematics becomes difficult.
The goal is not to move every child in the same way, but to understand each child's ability and help each one move toward his or her maximum limit.
Because real growth begins when a child discovers he can go further than expected.
