How to Organize Math Manipulatives

Most primary teachers have a lot of math manipulatives.  Having a lot of manipulatives requires a teacher to be organized.  Over the years I have tried many different organizational systems.  All involved plastic containers and labels.  Now I finally have a system that works for me.
organizing math manipulatives


Containers are a teacher's best friend when it comes to organizing math manipulatives.  Nothing is worse than opening a cupboard and having linker cubes topple out.  When organizing, I like to have a variety of different-sized containers.  However, I also want these containers to match. Chances are if they are from the same company, then they will nest nicely on top of each other.

The best containers to get the job done in my opinion are from Sterlite.  They are the latch clip boxes.  I own so many, that I have lost count.  Not only do I use them for my math manipulatives, but I also use them to store all of my centers for ELA and MAth, as well as my literacy manipulatives.

I use the large Clip Boxes to store pattern blocks and linking cubes.
The medium boxes are perfect for 2-sided chips, foam dice, and linking chains.
classroom storage containers


The small boxes are the perfect size for dice.
I also use the mini- they are great for those cute erasers or any other small items.
small sterilite latch clip box for classroom storage
Because these boxes can be an investment, I've also searched for other containers that will get the job done and save you a few dollars.

If I had to do it all over again, I think I would go with boxes from the container store.  I really like these boxes below and am really tempted to order some.  I have a container problem, I have so many I could open my own container store.  However, these boxes are made to stack together and come in so many sizes.

Now to go with those amazing containers, you will need some labels.  I have just what you need. Click the image to shop.
math manipulative labels for organizing




What is your favorite way to store math manipulatives?  Drop me a comment about what you like to use and where you buy them.  Like I said, I love a good container.

Pin the image below so you can come back to it when you are ready to organize.
Organizing Math Manipulatives

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