Manipulatives are concrete materials that children can use to represent mathematical ideas. They are important tools in developing mathematical understanding for all children K-12.
Manipulatives help children by providing:
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Models they can refer to (i.e., visualize) even when the manipulatives are no longer present
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A reason for them to work cooperatively to solve problems
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A reason for them to discuss mathematical ideas and verbalize their thinking
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A level of autonomy since they can work with the materials without teacher guidance
Making Math Meaningful 3rd Edition, M. Small (2017)
While there may be some formal manipulatives that are used in school, manipulatives can be created out of everyday household items such as buttons, marbles, food (cheerios, pasta), beads and cubes.
There are also digital manipulatives and activities available online at Mathies Learning Tools.
Have your child go on and show you what they have been using in class.
Please also have a look at this list of resources that may be useful for your family.
To find out what your child will learn in math this year or to find other fun activities that you can do together as a family, please visit the Math page. Be sure to also try our Problem of the Month.