What is the purpose of the Change or Bank Game in Montessori education?

The Change or Bank Game is designed specifically to help children understand the concept of exchanging quantities, particularly in relation to the decimal system, which is fundamental in mathematics. By participating in this game, children learn to exchange ten units of a particular value for one unit of the next higher value. This hands-on activity reinforces their understanding of base ten, promoting numerical reasoning and laying the groundwork for more advanced mathematical concepts.

As children engage in the game, they experience the practical application of addition and subtraction within this hierarchical system, which enhances their understanding of how numbers work together in real-life situations. The tactile and visual nature of the materials used in the game aligns with Montessori principles, where learning is facilitated through active, hands-on exploration rather than rote memorization. This experiential learning solidifies their mathematical foundation in a concrete way.