Parent Education

The numbers 1-9 are cut out from sandpaper and mounted on a thick piece of wood or masonite. Zero does not get presented at this time. Also present are a little jug, basin and a cloth, which are used to make their fingers sensitive. The purpose is to learn to write the symbols that correspond to the quantities the child has learned. This is an indirect preparation for writing numbers. If the child wants to practice writing, we can show him the chalkboard.

 The child is about 4 to 4 1/2 years old when he starts to practice the Sandpaper Numbers. The Sandpaper Numbers are used with other math material – counting rods, counting rods and numbers, spindle boxes, numbers and counters and the memory game in the first group where we introduce the numbers 1-10 by quantity and symbol.  

These exercises consist of a small tray, and two or more vessels – one of which holds liquid. As a child is guided through the various levels of progression, they are taught proper muscle control and pouring techniques in pouring liquid from one vessel to another without spilling. The child gains a wonderful sense of left to right eye-hand coordination and concentration. Their small fine motor skills are developed through activities like these, as well.