Cards and Counters is a Montessori math material made of number cards from 1 through 10 and 55 counters. The child matches each numeral with the quantity it represents.
The work usually begins on a floor mat. The child places the cards in order, starting with 1, and leaves enough space below each card for its counters. Then the child counts out one counter beneath 1, two beneath 2, and continues through 10.
The counters are arranged in pairs. For an even number, every counter has a partner. For an odd number, the final counter sits by itself below the last pair. The layout makes the odd-and-even pattern visible across the full sequence.
Extra or missing counters at the end can be a signal to check the work again. That check is useful, but it does not catch every possible counting or placement mistake. A child can recount each group and compare it with the card above it.
Because counters are small loose pieces, the material should be chosen for the child’s age and readiness and used with appropriate adult supervision.
