The Subtraction Tables is a Furniture & Storage Montessori material designed for children aged 3-6, crafted by Nienhuis Montessori to AMI standards.
These Subtraction Tables provide systematic practice for children mastering subtraction facts from 1-18. The durable cardstock format presents equations clearly on individual cards, with separate answer cards allowing for self-checking and repeated practice of essential mathematical operations.
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”— Maria MontessoriEducation and Peace
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
— Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
The Subtraction Tables exist in the Montessori mathematics sequence as a bridge between concrete manipulation and abstract thinking. These cardstock equation cards address the child's need to internalize subtraction facts through systematic, repeated practice after extensive work with golden beads and other manipulatives. The separate answer cards enable independent verification, allowing children to discover patterns in subtraction relationships without adult intervention. By presenting equations from 1-18 in organized format, the tables respond to the mathematical mind's desire for order and completeness. The durable cardstock construction withstands repeated handling as children progress from matching known facts to calculating new ones. This systematic approach to subtraction memorization follows the child's natural progression from counting backwards with objects to instant recall of number relationships.
Each order includes everything needed for proper presentation and long-term use.
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Select one column of equations (e.g., all subtractions from 9)
Read each equation aloud and calculate the answer
Find the corresponding answer card and place it beside the equation
After completing the column, turn over answer cards to verify
Each material supports multiple areas of child development simultaneously.
Repetitive practice builds automatic recall of subtraction facts, creating a strong foundation for advanced arithmetic.
Separate answer cards enable children to check their work independently, fostering confidence and self-directed learning.
Focused work with individual cards develops sustained attention and systematic thinking patterns.
Transition from concrete materials to abstract number work supports cognitive development in mathematical reasoning.
Designed for child-sized hands
Professional tips from AMI-trained guides to maximize the educational value of this material.
“Introduce after extensive concrete subtraction work with golden beads and stamp game”
Observe which facts children find challenging and provide targeted manipulative work
Create a tracking chart showing each child's progress through the tables
minuend, subtrahend, difference
Everything you need to know about this material.
The Subtraction Tables are designed for children ages 3-6 who are ready to explore subtraction concepts. Most children begin using them around age 4-5, after gaining familiarity with addition and number recognition up to 18.
The material includes separate equation cards and answer cards. Children work through subtraction problems, then check their work by matching with the corresponding answer card, promoting independent learning and self-assessment.
The Subtraction Tables cover subtraction facts from 1-18, providing comprehensive practice with all basic subtraction combinations within this range. This aligns with the Montessori mathematics curriculum for early elementary.
The cards are made from sturdy cardstock material designed to withstand frequent handling by young children. With proper care and storage, they maintain their quality through years of classroom or home use.
Yes, the Subtraction Tables complement other Montessori math materials like the subtraction strip board, golden beads, and number rods. They serve as an abstract practice tool after children have worked with concrete manipulatives.
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