Training Young Minds

Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) Prepares 17 Children for an International Mental Arithmetic Competition

A Week to Build More Than Math Skills

Mental arithmetic requires speed, concentration, memory and confidence. For children, practicing these skills can also create opportunities to test themselves, work toward a goal and experience the satisfaction of seeing their effort pay off.

In June 2026, Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) gave 17 children in Jordan the opportunity to do exactly that through an intensive training program followed by participation in an international mental arithmetic competition.

One Week of Focused Preparation

Before the competition, the children completed a one-week intensive mental arithmetic training program in Amman.

Sessions were designed to strengthen mental calculation skills while improving concentration and building confidence. The preparation gave participants time to practice before entering a competition alongside children from several countries.

Ten Minutes to Put Their Skills to the Test

On June 27, 2026, the children participated in the International Mental Arithmetic Competition.

The mental arithmetic examination lasted just 10 minutes, requiring participants to remain focused while working quickly and accurately. A team of 18 LIFE volunteers helped organize the event, guide children to their examination rooms and create a calm environment before the test.

Afterward, the children had time for games and recreational activities while their work was evaluated.

Every LIFE Participant Earned Recognition

The results reflected the effort the children had put into preparing.

Among LIFE's 17 participants:

• 3 earned Gold rankings

• 3 earned Silver rankings

• 4 earned Bronze rankings

• 2 achieved second place

• 4 achieved fourth place

• 1 achieved fifth place

Every LIFE child who participated received a ranking or placement in the competition.

Beyond the results themselves, the experience allowed children to compete internationally, practice performing under pressure and see what they could accomplish through preparation and persistence.

Confidence That Goes Home With Them

The value of the competition extended beyond arithmetic.

The project gave children an opportunity to challenge themselves in a supportive environment, interact with other young participants and experience recognition for their hard work. According to the completion report, the experience strengthened concentration, self-confidence, healthy competition and teamwork.

Giving Children Opportunities to Discover What They Can Do

Life for Relief and Development sincerely thanks the donors and supporters who make opportunities like this possible.

Meeting children's needs also means creating space for them to learn, explore their abilities and take pride in what they achieve.

For these 17 children, the competition was more than a test of numbers. It was a chance to practice, compete and discover just how capable they could be.