Children display a universal love of mathematics, which is par excellence the science of precision, order and intelligence.
~ Maria Montessori
School is in full swing and students in classrooms all over the country are getting used to their daily routines. Introducing early counting and numeration skills will help children begin to work independently throughout the Montessori morning work period.
Numeration
Maria Montessori developed a thorough mathematics scope and sequence with one major goal in mind: to move from the concrete to the abstract and the simple to complex.
Mathematical concepts can get complex quickly. Focusing on the foundational skills is vital for a child’s overall success in the area of mathematics. By teaching them solid counting, numeration, symbol recognition and place value skills, children in your classroom will be confident in their ability to understand future complex and abstract concepts in Mathematics.
The first lessons in the mathematics area begin with the numbers 1-10. Children begin by counting physical objects in order to discover the difference between each number. Through the use of the number rods, spindle box, sandpaper numbers and loose counting works, children develop their ability to count and associate quantities with numbers.
Counting Practice
Once children are confident in their ability to recognize the numbers between 0-10, introduce them to various counting extensions in the mathematics area. Counting memory games can be a fun way
for children to practice their counting skills with a group of friends. In this work, children must match the number of circles on the wooden card to the symbol that corresponds to it. The Tens Bead Box Golden Bead Exchange Game is also fun counting work. Children use this specially designed work that has 9 unit beads and 9 ten bars. The child rolls a die when they count to 10 the child exchanges for a 10 bar. This game is perfect to reinforce counting, while also practicing skills that will support addition.
Puzzles are another fun extension work you can add to the mathematics area of the classroom. These textured wooden number tiles give children hands-on experience not only at counting each number, but also through feeling the imprints of the quantity of each shape.
Counting practice can happen outside too. When children are on the playground or outside, invite them to gather objects or count things they observe in nature. A pile of sticks or rocks can quickly become a wonderful lesson in counting. Adding counting stones to the classroom or playground are another way to encourage 1-10 counting practice.
Use this week’s worksheet to give the children in your classroom practice writing the numbers 0 - 9.
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