Numerals And Signs: US Version
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
A rich educational resource, this Numerals and Signs material provides hands-on practice with mathematical symbols essential for early arithmetic work. The wooden compartmented tray organizes red plastic numerals (0-9) and operation signs, and children can then build equations and explore number relationships. Designed specifically for the US market, this material supports the transition from concrete mathematical concepts to abstract symbol recognition.
“Children display a universal love of mathematics, which is par excellence the science of precision, order, and intelligence.”
The Numerals and Signs material bridges concrete mathematical understanding with abstract symbol recognition through its carefully organized wooden tray containing red plastic numerals and operation signs. Children who have worked extensively with golden beads and other concrete materials now need to connect quantities to written symbols, this US version provides exactly that connection point.
- Associates written numerals 0-9 with quantities previously explored through concrete materials
- Builds and reads multi-digit numbers using moveable numerals
- Recognizes and uses mathematical operation signs (+, -, =, ×, ÷)
- Creates and solves simple equations by arranging numerals and signs
Read More
The red plastic numerals match the color coding of the large number cards, creating visual consistency across mathematical materials. By physically manipulating these moveable numerals and signs to build equations, children discover that abstract symbols represent real quantities and operations they already understand. The compartmented wooden tray ensures each numeral and sign has its designated place, reinforcing the order and precision mathematics requires. This material exists because children around age 4-5 need repeated practice forming and reading number combinations before moving to paper-based arithmetic.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the wooden tray on a work mat. Ensure all red plastic numerals 0-9 are in their compartments, along with operation signs. Have golden bead material nearby for initial presentations.
- 1
Invite the child to bring quantity cards and match them with the plastic numerals, starting with single digits
Let the child discover that the red numerals match their large number cards - 2
Show how to build two-digit numbers by placing numerals side by side, reading left to right
Use familiar numbers like the child's age or classroom number - 3
Introduce the plus sign by combining two small quantities with beads, then representing with numerals
Start with sums under 10 to ensure success - 4
Demonstrate the equals sign as 'the same as' by showing equivalent bead quantities
Use horizontal layout to establish equation format - 5
Build simple addition equations like 2 + 3 = 5, verifying with golden beads
Always work left to right, placing numerals carefully
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
AMI approved
To the association standard
Numerals And Signs: US Version
