Tens Boards: US Version

The Tens Boards are two wooden boards with printed numbers 10-90 in the left column and sliding wooden strips numbered 1-9 that slide over to create all numbers from 10-99. Children physically slide the number strips to reveal and create two-digit numbers, providing a hands-on way to understand place value and the decimal system.

Children typically begin using the Tens Boards around age 4-5, after mastering numbers 1-10 and showing readiness for larger numbers. The material is designed for ages 3-6, but the exact timing depends on each child's individual development and prior experience with Montessori math materials like the Number Rods and Spindle Boxes.

The Tens Boards teach place value, the decimal system, number sequencing from 10-99, skip counting by tens, and the relationship between tens and units. Children develop a concrete understanding of how two-digit numbers are formed and learn to recognize number patterns, preparing them for more advanced mathematical concepts.

Unlike static number charts, the Tens Boards provide interactive, hands-on learning through moveable number strips that children physically manipulate. This tactile experience creates deeper understanding as children construct numbers themselves rather than simply viewing them, following Montessori's principle of learning through movement and sensorial exploration.

Children can practice skip counting by tens, find specific numbers when asked, identify number patterns, match quantity with symbols using golden beads, play number sequence games, and create their own number combinations. Advanced activities include using the boards with other Montessori math materials for operations like addition and subtraction.