How Montessori Materials Support Maths and Science in Early Years 

The Montessori approach is known for its hands-on, child-centred method that helps children learn through discovery. When it comes to maths and science, Montessori classrooms shine — not because of worksheets or rote learning, but through thoughtfully designed materials that make abstract ideas tangible and meaningful. 

Learning Through Hands-On Experience 

In Montessori education, children learn by doing. Rather than simply being told that “2 + 2 = 4”, they physically manipulate objects, see patterns and discover concepts for themselves. This process helps children understand why things work, not just how. 

Montessori materials encourage: 

• Active engagement – children use their hands and senses to explore. 
• Independence – materials are designed for self-correction, so children can learn at their own pace. 
• Confidence in learning – success comes from discovery, not memorisation. 

This hands-on approach builds a deep, lasting understanding of maths and science principles from an early age. 

Montessori Materials for Maths 

Montessori maths materials progress from concrete to abstract learning, helping children grasp complex ideas step by step. 

Some of the key tools include: 

• Number rods – show length and quantity relationships, teaching counting and sequencing. 
• Sandpaper numbers – let children feel the shape of numerals while learning to identify them. 
• Golden beads – represent units, tens, hundreds and thousands, helping children visualise place value. 
• Bead chains and boards – support multiplication, division and skip counting through patterns. 

These materials don’t just teach children how to calculate — they help them see and understand mathematical relationships, making learning enjoyable and logical. 

Montessori and Early Science 

Science in the Montessori classroom begins with nurturing curiosity about the natural world. Through hands-on exploration and observation, children develop key scientific thinking skills such as questioning, predicting and experimenting. 

Common Montessori science experiences include: 

• Sorting and classifying natural materials – leaves, shells and rocks to learn about categories and properties. 
• Simple experiments – exploring sink and float, magnetism, or plant growth. 
• Nature walks and gardening – encouraging care for the environment and observation of change over time. 
• Three-part cards – introducing scientific vocabulary and concepts like life cycles, habitats and anatomy. 

These activities promote a love of discovery and help children understand their place in the natural world. 

The Bottom Line 

Montessori materials transform maths and science from abstract ideas into concrete, meaningful experiences. By engaging the senses, encouraging independence and nurturing curiosity, they lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning. 

For parents and educators, Montessori offers more than an educational method — it’s a way of helping children see the world through exploration, wonder and understanding.