Material name: Stamp Game (Montessori Stamp Game)
Area: Mathematics
Purpose & developmental benefits:
The Stamp Game allows children to practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with larger numbers using the decimal system. Through hands-on work with stamps representing units, tens, hundreds, and thousands, children arrange, calculate, and exchange stamps to carry out operations in a concrete yet increasingly abstract way. This material serves as a key transition from Golden Beads to more abstract mathematical thinking, supporting a strong and lasting understanding of arithmetic.
Skills supported:
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Performs the four basic arithmetic operations
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Develops a deep understanding of place value
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Strengthens logical thinking and planning, especially during exchanges
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Builds independent calculation skills
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Bridges concrete materials and abstract numerical notation
Recommended age: 5–7 years
(after work with the Decimal System and Golden Beads)
Material & design:
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A set of color-coded stamps representing place values:
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Usually includes a storage box or compartmentalized tray
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Made of wood or sturdy board, with clearly printed numerals
???? Use in the classroom / at home:
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Practice addition and subtraction with and without carrying/borrowing
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Perform multiplication and division with large numbers in a concrete format
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Exchange activities (e.g. 10 units → 1 ten)
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Individual work during advanced math lessons
