Introduction to Decimal Symbol

Introduction to Decimal Symbol

The Introduction to Decimal Symbol set helps children explore the decimal system in a clear, hands-on way. Using color-coded plastic number cards in different lengths, children meet the values of 1, 10, 100, and 1000. This material is an essential first step to understanding place value and the base-10 system.

Educational Purpose

• Introduces units, tens, hundreds, and thousands.
• Supports visual and tactile learning with differences in color and length.
• Highlights the pattern of the decimal system by drawing attention to the number of zeros in each numeral.
• Builds a strong foundation for later Montessori math work.

Material Details

• Set of sturdy plastic number cards for 1, 10, 100, and 1000.
• Cards vary in length and color for clear distinction.
• Includes a wooden tray for organized storage.
• Recommended for ages 3–5 years.

Presentation Idea

• Bring the box of Large Number Cards to a table or mat.
• Remove the cards for 1, 10, 100, and 1000.
• Review color coding and the numbers already known (1 and 10).
• Introduce 100 and 1000 with a Three-Period Lesson.
• Explicitly point out the increasing number of zeros: 1 (no zero), 10 (one zero), 100 (two zeros), 1000 (three zeros).
• Place the cards in sequence with the thousand on the left and the unit (1) on the right.

Looking to complete your Montessori math shelf? Explore more in Mathematics, including Golden Beads, Hundred Board, and Number Rods.