Spindle Boxes

From Montessori Album
We've updated our prices on products from many online Montessori stores! If we've missed your favorite store, please let us know!
Spindle Boxes
Math - Numbers 0-10
Spindle Boxes 1.jpg
LevelPrimary
Age3.5 - 4
PrerequisitesNumber Rods
Sandpaper Numerals
Number Rods With Numerals
Materialsspindle boxes
45 identical spindles
container for spindles

This activity lets the child practice associating the numerals and quantities 0-9.

Presentation

  1. step one
    Spindle Boxes.jpg
  2. step two
    Spindle Boxes 2.JPG

Points of Interest

Direct Aim: 1. To show the collection of quatities into the single set. 2. To show the sequence of nine 3. To show zero as an empty set 4. To show nine as the first group in our decimal system, not ten.

Indirect Aim: 1. Use of nines 2. Ten is a new level

Control of Error

  • There are exactly enough spindles to complete the work. If at the end there are not enough, or if there are extra left over the child will know that there is a mistake.

Variations and Extensions

Material

Two wooden boxes with five long compartments in each. The back of each compartment has a black symbol printed on it. Aero to four are int the first box and five to nine are in the second box; The container has forty-five wooden spindles total and nine rubber bands.

Make Your Own

This version was made by gluing segments of cardboard tube onto two narrow boards. The numerals were written on cards with a marker and glued to the front. The spindles were made from sticks cut to the same length.
SB homemade 2.jpg SB homemade 1.JPG
Source:Montessori on a Budget

This version was made from two cardboard boxes with balsa wood dividers hot-glued in place. The spindles are popsicle sticks.
SB DIY.jpg
Source:What DID We Do All Day?