Subtraction Snake GameIndividual Beads Nylon (Nienhuis)
The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-0291M0
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Beads
- Durable nylon
- Storage Tray
- Natural wood
- EAN
- 8719924012304
Final price incl. VAT. Free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €182.90
Behind the price of the original are things you can check yourself.
AMI approval
The material is approved by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Nienhuis has made Montessori materials since 1929.
A verifiable original
The EAN 8719924012304 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Subtraction Snake Game in a child's hands
The snake game turned to subtraction, introducing the unit combinations that take a quantity apart. The child builds a snake of coloured bars, then works along it exchanging for golden tens, with the negative bars removing what the positive ones added. Where addition asks what these make together, this asks what is left, and the answer is something the child physically ends up holding. Four boxes of bead stairs and golden ten bars, fitted into a beechwood tray. Nylon beads with wood, for ages 3 to 6.
Mathematical Understanding
Builds concrete understanding of subtraction through physical manipulation of quantities.
Visual Discrimination
Color-coded beads help children recognize number values and develop pattern recognition.
Sequential Thinking
Following the snake game process develops logical reasoning and step-by-step problem solving.
Fine Motor Control
Handling individual beads and bars refines pincer grip and hand-eye coordination.
How to present it
Place the Subtraction Snake Game box on a mat. Arrange colored bead bars 1-9 on the left, gray negative bead bars in the center, and golden ten bars on the right. Ensure ample workspace for building the snake.
- 1Build a colorful snake using any combination of colored bead bars, placing them end to end
- 2Begin counting from the head of the snake, exchanging beads when you reach 10
- 3When instructed to subtract, place the gray negative bead bar next to where you stopped counting
- 4Count backwards on the colored beads by the amount shown on the gray bar
- 5Continue counting forward from where you stopped, incorporating the subtraction
- 6Exchange for golden ten bars and appropriate colored bars as you complete each ten
- 7Complete the entire snake, transforming it into golden tens and a final colored remainder
3 tips for parents
- Practice counting backwards from 10 during daily activities like walking downstairs or putting away toys
- Point out real-life subtraction situations: 'We had 5 apples, ate 2, now we have 3'
- Support classroom work by avoiding worksheets - let the concrete bead work solidify first
If you are not sure it suits your child, we answer in person.
Norbert Kovalčín, founder of Faborino · write to him
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What's in the Box
- Wooden storage tray: With 4 compartments
- Colored bead bars: Multiple sets in various colors
- Black and white bead bars: For negative numbers
- Reference cards: Color-coded guides
Size and material
| Packaging | 39 × 14 × 5 cm |
| Beads | Durable nylon |
| Storage Tray | Natural wood |
| Connectors | Metal wire |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe beads with damp cloth; dry wooden tray immediately if wet
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the Subtraction Snake Game set?
The set includes color-coded nylon bead bars representing quantities 1-9, black and white bead bars for negative numbers, a wooden tray for organization, and a notched board for counting. Each colored bead bar corresponds to a specific number value used in subtraction exercises.
How does the Subtraction Snake Game teach subtraction concepts?
Children create a 'snake' with colored bead bars, then subtract by exchanging them for black and white bars. This hands-on process allows them to physically see and manipulate the subtraction process, making abstract mathematical concepts concrete and understandable through visual and tactile learning.
Why are nylon beads recommended over glass beads?
Nylon beads are more durable, lighter, and safer for younger children. They're less likely to break if dropped, making them ideal for classroom use. The nylon material also maintains consistent color coding while being easier to clean and more resistant to wear from frequent handling.
What prerequisites should children have before using this material?
Children should be familiar with the Addition Snake Game and have a solid understanding of quantities 1-10. They should also have experience with the golden bead material and basic number recognition. This ensures they're ready for the more complex concept of subtraction.
How does this material prepare children for abstract math?
By physically manipulating beads to perform subtraction, children internalize the concept before moving to written equations. The color-coding system helps them recognize number patterns and relationships, building a strong foundation for mental math and preparing them for more advanced mathematical operations.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Subtraction Snake Game