Montessori materials represent all types of quantities. In the Montessori environment, children not only see the symbols 1,10,100, or 1,000, but they can also hold each of the corresponding quantities in their hands. Later, by combining various pieces of Montessori materials, they can demonstrate to themselves the basic operation of arithmetic and go from the concrete to the abstract. These activities give them the satisfaction of learning by discovery, rather than being told. Eventually, they develop an enthusiasm for the world of numbers.