In Montessori education, math is more than just numbers on a page—it’s a tangible, hands-on experience that helps children build a deep and lasting understanding of numerical concepts. One of the most important mathematical foundations in the Montessori curriculum is place value, which allows children to work with large numbers and understand the structure of our base-ten number system.
When it comes to early childhood education, parents have more options than ever before. From traditional daycare centers to play-based preschools, the choices can feel overwhelming. And yet, many parents who are searching for the best care and education for their little ones might not be aware that there’s an alternative that offers so much more than childcare—Montessori.
It’s an incredible sight to see—young children, some as young as four years old, deeply engaged in math work that lays the foundation for multiplication. This past week, one particular Montessori material, the Short Bead Chains, continued to captivate our students. The work was so absorbing that some children wanted to continue even as the start of circle time approached—"Just one more chain!" they’d say.
At Pearlily Montessori, children are experiencing geography in a hands-on, interactive way. Montessori World Continent Puzzle Maps are one of the most beloved and effective materials for introducing young learners to the world around them. When students explore the world with puzzle maps, they’re piecing together countries and gaining a deep understanding of their shapes, locations, and relationships. But why is this work so significant?
One of the core principles of a true Montessori education is the 3-year cycle—a unique and intentional structure that provides children with an uninterrupted, multi-year learning experience. For parents new to Montessori, this framework may seem different from traditional preschool programs, but it is designed to give children the confidence, skills, and independence they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
The Number Rods are another quintessential Montessori material that brings math to life. These rods are a tactile, hands-on way for children to explore numerical concepts. They provide children with an opportunity to move beyond abstract ideas of numbers by engaging their senses. By physically interacting with the rods, children develop an intuitive understanding of quantity, size, and numerical relationships.
At Pearlily Montessori, children are constantly discovering and learning through carefully designed materials. One such material, the Montessori Color Tablets, goes beyond teaching children to identify colors—it helps them develop critical skills such as visual discrimination, concentration, fine motor coordination, and an appreciation for beauty.
As the new year begins, we often find ourselves reflecting on growth and planning for the future. For children, each new year marks an exciting chapter in their educational journey. Montessori education stands out as a unique approach that not only nurtures children’s curiosity and independence today but also equips them with skills and values that last a lifetime.
As the year draws to a close and the festive season fills our hearts with warmth, joy, and gratitude, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible growth and learning that has unfolded in our Montessori community. Each child’s journey is a unique story of curiosity, discovery, and development, and it’s been an honor to watch their progress.
The Montessori classroom is home to a wealth of beautifully crafted materials designed to spark curiosity and build foundational skills in young children. Among these treasures, the Binomial and Trinomial Cubes stand out—not just for their colorful and engaging appearance but for the deep learning and character development they inspire.
