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.
Share This
Recent Articles From Our Blog
Montessori as a Foundation for Life
No one knows exactly what the future will look like. Jobs are evolving, technology is advancing at lightning speed, and the challenges facing the next generation will be complex and global in nature. In this rapidly shifting landscape, it’s not enough to prepare children simply for the next grade level, a future job or career. Instead, we must prepare them for life.
Practical Ways to Extend Montessori at Home
As part of our “Montessori at Home” series, we wanted to share how you can thoughtfully prepare your living spaces to encourage purposeful activity and self-directed learning—just like in a Montessori classroom. With a few intentional changes, your home can become a beautiful extension of your child’s learning journey.
Honoring the Heart of Montessori at Pearlily
As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, we pause to shine a bright and grateful light on the quiet heroes of the classroom—our Montessori guides. These dedicated educators are more than just teachers. They are mentors, models, caretakers, and compassionate leaders shaping young lives every single day.
The Power of Repetition in Montessori
It’s not uncommon for parents to wonder why their child seems to return to the same work repeatedly, day after day. In a world that often prizes novelty and fast-paced learning, repetition can feel puzzling. However, in Montessori education, repetition is not only normal—it's essential.
Nurturing the Explorer Within
In a true Montessori classroom, children are immersed in geography through captivating, hands-on activities like puzzle map re-creations and early cartography. These works help foster not only spatial awareness and global understanding, but also valuable cognitive skills like sequencing, concentration, memory, and critical thinking. At home, parents can continue nurturing these skills in meaningful and engaging ways.
Prepare your child for life.
Is your child a dreamer? A builder? A thinker? A storyteller? An explorer?
At Pearlily Montessori, we educate children 3-6 years old and support them in becoming independent, responsible students who love to learn. Learn more about:
Our Mission
The Prepared Environment
Our Early Childhood Program
To grasp the essence of a Montessori education, just step inside a classroom.
Explore Pearlily.
Please fill out this form to learn more about the school, tuition, or to schedule a visit. We will contact you at the first opportunity.