Mathematics is one of the subjects that often generates the most anxiety and resistance among students. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. When taught through an engaging and hands-on approach, maths can become one of the most enjoyable and meaningful areas of learning. This is precisely what the Montessori mathematics method aims to achieve.

In this article, we explore how the Montessori approach transforms maths education into an intuitive and enjoyable experience. We’ll dive into the fundamentals of the Montessori mathematics method, highlight practical activities — especially in Montessori geometry — and show how this philosophy adapts to the needs of juniors or even infants.

Introduction to the Montessori method for teaching maths

The Montessori method in mathematics is grounded in the belief that children learn best through hands-on exploration. Rather than memorizing abstract formulas, students are introduced to mathematical concepts through tactile and visual materials. These materials help children grasp complex ideas by engaging with them physically before moving on to symbolic representations.

Montessori maths follows a concrete-to-abstract progression. Learning is initiated with specific sensory materials designed to facilitate intuitive understanding of mathematical concepts. Some of the most widely used Montessori maths materials include:

  • Number rods: To help children associate quantities with numerals.
  • Golden beads: To teach the decimal system, place value, and basic operations.
  • Bead chains: For skip counting, squaring, and cubing.
  • Stamp game: A transition tool for abstract operations like addition and subtraction.
  • Sandpaper numerals and counters: To develop number recognition and one-to-one correspondence.

These tools allow children to “see” and “feel” maths, making the learning process more intuitive and less intimidating. The ultimate goal is not only to teach arithmetic, but to build a true understanding of mathematical thinking.

Montessori activities to learn geometry in a practical way

Montessori geometry is a prime example of how abstract concepts can be taught through tangible experiences. Geometry lessons are not limited to naming shapes or learning formulas. Instead, children explore the properties of shapes through manipulation, observation, and classification.

Here are a few classic Montessori maths activities for geometry:

  • Geometric cabinet: A wooden box with drawers containing wooden geometric shapes (triangles, circles, polygons). Children trace and match them to understand differences and similarities.
  • Constructive triangles: A set of coloured triangles used to build other shapes and explore the concept of congruence, symmetry, and composition.
  • Three-dimensional solids: Cylinders, cones, spheres, and prisms that help children understand volume and shape.
  • Nomenclature cards: Visual aids that pair images with terminology to expand geometric vocabulary.
  • Tracing and drawing: Using stencils and metal insets to internalize forms and practice fine motor skills.

These proposals allow children to understand concepts such as symmetry, angles, lines or surfaces in an experiential way. In addition, they encourage the development of observation, analysis and classification: key skills in any logical-mathematical process.

How to adapt the Montessori method to young children’s maths learning

One of the greatest strengths of the Montessori maths method is its adaptability to different stages of development. In early childhood (ages 3 to 6), the focus is not on solving equations but on awakening mathematical curiosity without forcing abstraction.

Here’s how Montessori maths introduced to young learners:

  • Classification of objects by size or quantity.
  • Ordering elements (from smallest to largest, by color, etc.).
  • One-to-one correspondence (putting a card in each container).
  • Series and simple patterns.
  • Counting with manipulative materials (fruits, cubes, stones, beads).

These everyday experiences help build a solid foundation for future learning such as computation, logic or problem-solving. In addition, the prepared environment and the freedom of choice within the classroom favour motivation and a sense of discovery.

It should be noted that the adult has the role of guide, not transmitter. The role of the Montessori educator consists of observing, accompanying and offering the appropriate materials according to the developmental stage of each child.

Advantages of the Montessori approach to maths learning

The Montessori approach to mathematics has demonstrated multiple benefits in the acquisition of logical and numerical thinking. Among the main advantages are the following:

  • Real understanding of concepts: By learning from the concrete to the abstract, children develop solid and lasting mathematical thinking.
  • Greater motivation and enjoyment: Activities are perceived as a game or an exploration, not as an obligation.
  • Encouragement of autonomy: The student chooses what material to use and how much time to dedicate to it, respecting his or her rhythms.
  • Personalized learning: Each child advances according to his or her level of development, without comparisons or pressure.
  • Integral development: By manipulating materials, fine motor skills, concentration and reasoning skills are also developed.

Like any educational approach, it also requires specific teacher training, preparation of the environment and proper planning. But its results at a cognitive, emotional and attitudinal level make it a solid pedagogical proposal for those seeking more respectful and effective alternatives.