Dimensions: 20.5 x 20.5 x 1.5cm

Once small ones have understood the initial counting principles like stable order (understanding that we count in a particular order like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and not 1, 3, 5, 2, 4),  cardinality (understanding that the last number counted in a group denotes the number of items in a group like 1, 2, 3, 4. There are 4 things in the group.), and order irrelevance (that it does not matter which part you count first in a group, the result will persist the same) then you can start to introduce the idea of "joining" (aka addition) and "separating" (aka subtraction) and the Math Tray is a powerful tool to help with that concept.

It's essential that adding and subtracting aren't hurried on a kid's learning journey. We can't highlight that enough. So frequently we believe that when a kid can point to several things in a group and speak "1, 2, 3, 4, 5. There are 5 things here" they are ready to add or subtract, and we hurry to give them an equation to solve. There's so much that has to be established on a conceptual basis before adding and subtracting. 

Once your kid is ready to begin answering equations, the charm of this tray really shines.

This is great education as it touches on both the visual and kinesthetic senses, building long-lasting relationships in the mind. 

Our rainbow mini-balls work amazingly here, or you can also use playdough balls, felt balls, glass stones, or anything else you have around your home.

You can also use dry snacks, like Cheetos or grapes.