The overall Montessori curriculum is premised on providing children exposure to concrete materials first, and then giving them incremental opportunities to progress towards working with more abstract concepts.  This is no different when it comes to math. When learning math, children hold the lesson material in their hands, which is concrete.  The materials represent something else (a number, perhaps), and the symbolism changes over time until children are ready to let go of the materials and find solutions on paper or even in their heads. Through the captivating world of Montessori math, children develop a deep, lasting love for numbers and problem-solving.

The Montessori Math Curriculum

At the heart of the Montessori math curriculum lies a carefully crafted sequence of activities designed to meet the developmental needs of young learners. From the simplest counting exercises to the complexities of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, each concept is introduced in a logical progression, building upon the child’s existing knowledge and understanding.

At the heart of the Montessori math curriculum lies a meticulously structured sequence of activities designed to scaffold children’s learning and facilitate a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. This curriculum, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, reflects her keen insights into the natural progression of children’s mathematical development and is grounded in principles of hands-on exploration, sensorial experiences, and individualized learning.

Let’s explore some examples of the carefully crafted sequence of activities within the Montessori math curriculum:

Number Recognition and Sequencing

Number Rods: Children begin by exploring the Number Rods, a set of ten wooden rods varying in length, each corresponding to a numeral from 1 to 10. Through hands-on manipulation and visual comparison, children learn to recognize each numeral and understand the concept of quantity and sequence.

Quantity and Counting

Spindle Boxes: The Spindle Boxes provide children with a concrete representation of quantity and numeral association. By placing the appropriate number of spindles into each box according to numeral cues, children develop a strong foundation in counting and numerical order.

Place Value and Decimal System

Golden Beads Materials: Introducing children to the concept of place value, the Golden Beads materials consist of golden beads representing units, tens, hundreds, and thousands. Through hands-on exploration, children learn to build numbers, perform addition and subtraction operations, and understand the hierarchical structure of the decimal system.

Linear and Skip Counting

Short Bead Stair: The Short Bead Stair provides children with a visual and tactile representation of linear counting, with each bead representing a successive unit in the sequence. Through exploration and manipulation, children develop a strong sense of linear progression and practice skip counting by various intervals.

Operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division

Addition Strip Board: Using the Addition Strip Board, children practice the concept of addition through concrete materials and visual representation. By arranging strips of beads to form numerical equations, children engage in hands-on exploration of addition concepts and develop problem-solving skills.

Multiplication Bead Board: The Multiplication Bead Board offers children a concrete approach to exploring multiplication concepts. By arranging beads in rows and columns, children visually represent multiplication equations and develop a deep understanding of the relationship between multiplication and addition.

A Rich Tapestry of Learning

These examples represent just a glimpse of the rich and diverse array of activities within the Montessori math curriculum. Each activity is carefully designed to meet the developmental needs of children, providing opportunities for hands-on exploration, sensorial engagement, and meaningful learning experiences. As children progress through the curriculum, they build upon their existing knowledge and skills, gaining confidence and mastery in mathematical concepts.

As you can see, the Montessori math curriculum provides a rich tapestry of exploration, discovery, and learning. By providing children with the tools and opportunities to engage with mathematics in a hands-on, multi-sensory way, we empower them to develop a deep understanding and appreciation for the beauty and complexity of numbers.

Still Curious?

The best way to really understand Montessori math is to see the materials in action.  Schedule a visit to watch children using them in the classroom or attend a parent education session.