I don't know much about Kumon Maths, but I agree that the maths training should train kids to understand the logic behind, rather than just memorizing the answer by repeating the calculations. My personal opinion is that it depends very much on why the parents send the kids to learn (only for faster calculation?), and how the kids learn (by thinking or by memorising).
My daughter is now 3.5 months. She started a math class in another institution (I prefer not mentioning the name in order not to be deemed as promoting) 3 months ago. I just wished her to have some exposure, not pushing her to learn mechanically. She enjoyed the lesson, which is more lively, colourful and not focus on fast and repeating work. She first learnt addition by adding her fingers (e.g. 3 + 4 = 7). Now she can do simple arithmatic like 9+3 = 12, etc. When I ask her how she figures it out, she will explain, "9 + 1 = 10, and 1 + 2 = 3, so 9 + 3 = 10 + 2 = 12". I think she really understands the logic behind, not just memorising. There are also some critical thinking (e.g. shapes, pattern) exercise. My daughter regards all these as funny games. So I think it is a good chance for her to learn while enjoying.作者: echowu 時間: 2009-9-15 20:40
