At Kumon Math and Reading Centers, enrollment has increased by more than 55 percent over the past four years. As a result, the company opened dozens of new centers in 2005 to meet the demand.

"Supplemental education programs are gaining momentum across the country, especially among elementary school children," says Mark Mele, vice president of franchising with Kumon. "In fact, more than 60 percent of students enrolled in Kumon Math and Reading Centers are in the second through sixth grades, with fourth graders comprising the highest enrollment."

Kumon is an after-school math and reading program founded in Japan in 1958. The learning method uses a systematic approach said to help children develop a solid command of math and reading skills. According to Kumon, through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration, and develop better study skills. Today, there are 3.5 million students studying at more than 22,000 Kumon Centers in 43 countries. North America now has more than 1,600 Kumon centers and 180,000 students enrolled.
http://www.franchising.com/article.php?id=135