The Subtraction Strip Board is a Mathematics Montessori material designed for children aged 3-6, crafted by Nienhuis Montessori to AMI standards.
The Subtraction Strip Board provides a concrete, visual method for children to explore subtraction equations and discover mathematical patterns. Through hands-on manipulation of color-coded wooden strips on a numbered grid, children build a deep understanding of subtraction facts from 1-18 while developing concentration and mathematical reasoning skills.
“Children display a universal love of mathematics, which is par excellence the science of precision, order, and intelligence.”— Maria MontessoriThe Discovery of the Child
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'”
— Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
The Subtraction Strip Board transforms abstract subtraction concepts into tangible experiences through color-coded wooden strips positioned on a numbered grid. Each strip's length physically represents a quantity, allowing children to see and touch the process of taking away. The grid's design from 1-18 enables systematic exploration of subtraction equations, while the wooden strips' varied lengths create visual patterns that reveal mathematical relationships. By manipulating these strips to solve equations, children internalize subtraction facts through repetition and discovery rather than memorization. The board's horizontal layout mirrors the left-to-right progression of mathematical notation, preparing children for written arithmetic. This material bridges the gap between concrete counting activities and abstract number operations, providing the sensorial foundation essential for mathematical abstraction in the elementary years.
Each order includes everything needed for proper presentation and long-term use.
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Select an equation card (e.g., 9-4). Place the blue 9-strip at the board's left edge
Count 4 spaces from the right end of the blue strip and place the red 4-strip
Read the answer where the red strip begins on the number line
Record the complete equation (9-4=5) on paper
Return strips to their boxes and select a new equation
Every material is carefully selected for durability, safety, and authentic Montessori experience.
The smooth wooden strips and sturdy board provide a tactile experience that reinforces mathematical concepts through sensory engagement.
Each material supports multiple areas of child development simultaneously.
Builds concrete understanding of subtraction through visual and tactile manipulation of quantities.
Children discover mathematical patterns and relationships between numbers through systematic exploration.
The methodical process of working through subtraction combinations develops sustained focus and attention to detail.
Bridges the gap between concrete manipulation and abstract mathematical concepts, preparing for mental arithmetic.
Designed for child-sized hands
Professional tips from AMI-trained guides to maximize the educational value of this material.
“Introduce one strip color at a time, establishing blue for minuends before adding red for subtrahends”
Create equation cards that progress from simple (within 10) to complex (up to 18)
Observe which equations children solve easily to identify readiness for memorization work
Use the board during group lessons to demonstrate inverse operations with addition
Everything you need to know about this material.
The Subtraction Strip Board is designed for children ages 3-6 years old. However, it's most commonly introduced around age 4-5 when children have mastered basic counting and have experience with the Addition Strip Board.
The board provides a hands-on, visual method for understanding subtraction. Children physically manipulate color-coded strips on a numbered grid, making abstract subtraction concepts concrete. This helps them discover patterns, memorize subtraction facts, and develop deep mathematical understanding through repetition.
The set includes a wooden board with a numbered grid from 1-18, a complete set of blue and natural wooden strips in varying lengths representing different numbers, and a wooden storage box. Some versions also include control charts for self-correction.
Yes, children should have a solid understanding of numbers 1-20, experience with counting backwards, and ideally have worked with the Addition Strip Board first. They should also understand the concept of 'taking away' through practical life activities.
Children usually work with this material over several months, progressing from simple equations to memorizing all subtraction facts up to 18. Daily practice of 15-20 minutes helps children internalize the subtraction tables and recognize mathematical patterns.
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