Material name: Number Rods (Montessori Number Rods)
Area: Mathematics
Purpose & developmental benefits:
The Number Rods help children experience quantity, length, and numerical sequence from 1 to 10 in a concrete, visual way. By building the rods, touching, counting, and comparing, children come to understand the relationship between length and quantity, laying an essential foundation for later work in addition and subtraction.
Skills supported:
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Recognizes the number sequence 1–10
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Develops comparison skills and discriminates length
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Practices sequential counting through hands-on work
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Strengthens hand–eye coordination and concentration
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Builds early mathematical thinking and readiness for number symbols
Recommended age: 3–6 years
Material & design:
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A set of 10 wooden rods, increasing in length from shortest to longest
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Painted in alternating red and blue sections, following Montessori standards
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Smooth finish with rounded edges for safety; easy for children to grip and handle
Use in the classroom / at home:
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First presentation for introducing the number rods
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Activities for ordering (ascending/descending), matching, and comparing
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Can be paired with Sandpaper Numerals to match quantity with the written symbol
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A direct preparation for Number Rods and Cards and later arithmetic work
