Material name: The Dot Game (Montessori Dot Game)
Area: Mathematics
Purpose & developmental benefits:
The Dot Game helps children practice large-number addition using a dot-based board, supporting the gradual transition from concrete materials (such as beads or stamps) to abstract numerical calculation. By placing, grouping, and exchanging dots, children gain a clear understanding of place value, the principles of carrying, and the correct structure of written addition.
Skills supported:
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Practices addition with large numbers, with and without carrying
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Develops a clear understanding of units, tens, hundreds, and thousands
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Builds the ability to organize and present calculations accurately
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Strengthens logical thinking, concentration, and attention to detail
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Serves as a bridge from the Stamp Game to higher-level abstract math work
Recommended age: 6–9 years
(or for children already familiar with the Decimal System, Golden Beads, and the Stamp Game)
???? Material & design:
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A Dot Game board printed with dot columns (units through thousands)
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Cards or markers, depending on the set
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Board typically in Montessori green
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Made of durable paper, wood, or laminated material, suitable for writing and erasing
???? Use in the classroom / at home:
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Teacher presents an addition problem and children solve it on the dot board
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Dot exchange activities (10 dots → 1 dot in the next place value)
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Practice repeated addition and multi-column addition
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Prepares children for traditional written arithmetic on paper
