We purchased Monkey Math for a holiday gift last year for my then 3 ½ year old. She was not exceptionally interested in it then, but she is definitely interested now.
The Game
This learning game has 16 pieces all told. There is a little monkey that is on a stand and his head rocks back and forth depending on what numbers are placed on each handle that he is holding. He is 7 ¼ inches tall and 9 ½ inches wide (plastic).
When the monkey is not balanced with equal numbers on either hand, the side with the higher number hangs down low. While his hand hangs low, his eyes are wild looking since the eye sockets are not lining up with his eyes. When he’s balanced, you can see his eyes fine.
There are 15 “banana bunches” or number pieces total. Of these 15, there are 2 of each of the following numbers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 1 of each of the following numbers: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
When a number is placed on the right hand, you have to balance the bananas by putting the equal “number” of bananas on the other hand. For example, if you put a single bunch of 10 bananas on the right hand, you will have to put 2 of the other numbers together to get the total on the left hand up to 10 bananas. When you do have equal numbers showing, the monkeys arm are balanced and you can see his eyes.
This helps toddlers start learning about numbers and how they add up to other numbers. It helps teach about balance on a scale of sorts and helps them begin to grasp beginning math concepts. They state this isn’t for children under 3 years old. I agree. My child was 3 ½ and showed a little interest in it, but it wasn’t sinking in what was happening. Now, a year later, my child is grasping the concepts much better and enjoys playing with it for a short while.
Overall Impressions
The game is very a simple concept. It’s not a noise maker, which is nice. It’s all toddler power, no batteries!
If you are looking for a fun way to introduce math and the concept of addition or subtraction, this is a great game to help with that!
As a parent, I enjoy playing and helping my child. It’s easy to use, the banana bunches and the money are funny and easy to pack away. This is made by the Huntar Company Inc. . You can find more information at www.huntarcompany.com or possibly contact them at the following address:
Huntar Company, Inc.
32408 Central Ave.
Union City, CA 94587
We ordered this through Highlights and received shipping quite promptly. I believe I have seen this available through Amazon.com as well. It’s a great game that lets toddlers learn as they go.
If you are looking for a game that is not terribly noisy, is fun to play with and makes learning fun, this should be one you check out.
~Thanks for spending time with me today!~
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 15.00 Type of Toy: Educational
Age Range of Child: 3 to 5 Years
A fun way to learn simple addition! Hang colorful bananas from the monkey¿s hand. The monkeys eyes will be crossed or straight ahead. Includes scal...More at Amazon
A fun way to learn simple addition! Hang colorful bananas from the monkey¿s hand. The monkeys eyes will be crossed or straight ahead. Includes scal...More at Amazon Marketplace
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