Montessori Numerals and Counters

A wooden box with lid containing 55 red wooden counters and red wooden cut-out numerals from 1 to 10.

This Montessori material helps children learn to count from 1 to 10, match quantities to symbols, and get introduced to even and odd numbers — laying the foundation for future work with division.

Presentation:

The teacher invites the child to lay out the numerals from 1 to 10. Under each numeral, the child places the corresponding number of red counters in a clear pattern. Even numbers form two equal columns, while odd numbers have one counter placed in the center below the columns.

This visual arrangement naturally highlights the concept of even and odd numbers.

Control of Error:

55 counters provided; numbers are clearly matched to quantity. The control is built into the material and supported by the guide.

Benefits:

• Develops number sense and one-to-one correspondence
• Teaches the concept of even and odd
• Builds logical thinking and order
• Prepares for operations like division

Recommended age: 3–5 years

“In the game for memorizing numbers, the small counters immediately show which numbers can be divided into equal parts and which leave one without a pair. Children remember this not just through explanation, but because they can see and physically feel the difference.”
— Maria Montessori, The Discovery of the Child

Product details:

• Numeral height: 7 cm
• Counter diameter: 1.7 cm

• Material: Wood