Sandpaper Numerals Box

The Sandpaper Numerals Box keeps the sandpaper numerals together and in order, so a child can carry the whole set to a table and put it back unaided. The numerals come out one at a time to be traced in the direction of writing while the number is named, and the box then takes them all back in order rather than leaving them face down on a shelf. Storage of this kind is part of the method rather than an accessory: material with one clear home invites the child to complete the whole cycle of work. It belongs on the mathematics shelf beside the number rods and the spindle box, for children from about three years.