The basic concepts of math are learned by a child in two ways - either using concrete materials at an age when they enjoy manipulating equipment, or abstractly when they are older and in elementary grades.

Dr. Montessori showed that if a child has access to mathematical materials in their early years, they can easily and happily assimilate many facts and skills or arithmetic. These same concepts on the other hand, may require long hours and drill learning if they are introduced later, in abstract form.