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manipulatives

Rekenrek for children

Use a bead rack to build subitising, doubles and number sense.

Quick answer

A Rekenrek is a maths tool with two rows of beads that helps children learn numbers, addition, subtraction, and patterns by moving beads and seeing number relationships.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how to use a Rekenrek to build number sense, spot patterns, and solve simple maths problems with beads. Success signs:
  • You can show numbers 1 to 20 using the beads
  • You can add or take away beads to solve simple sums
  • You can see patterns like doubles and near doubles
  • You can explain how the beads help you think about numbers

Why this matters

The Rekenrek helps you see numbers in a new way. It's like a magic tool that makes maths fun and easy to understand. When you use it, you can see how numbers work together, which helps you solve problems faster and more confidently. It's used in schools and at home to help children understand numbers, not just memorise them.

How it works

A Rekenrek looks like a wooden frame with two rows of 10 beads each. The beads are usually red and white, grouped in sets of 5. You can move the beads to show numbers and solve problems. To use it:
  1. Start with all beads on the left side
  2. Move beads to the right to show numbers
  3. Use the red and white groups to help you count
  4. Notice patterns as you move beads

Examples you can see

Let's imagine you have a Rekenrek and you want to show the number 7. Step 1: Start with all 20 beads on the left side. Step 2: Move 5 red beads to the right (this is one group of 5). Step 3: Move 2 white beads to the right (this is 2 more). Step 4: You now have 7 beads on the right side (5 red + 2 white). You can also use it for addition. To show 4 + 3: Step 1: Move 4 beads to the right. Step 2: Move 3 more beads to the right. Step 3: Count all the beads you moved. That's 7. You can also use it for subtraction. To show 8 - 3: Step 1: Move 8 beads to the right. Step 2: Take 3 beads back to the left. Step 3: Count how many are still on the right. That's 5.

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Bead Treasure Hunt You are a treasure hunter looking for a hidden number. You have a Rekenrek, and the treasure is hidden in the beads. 1st time: Move 5 red beads to the right. 2nd time: Move 2 white beads to the right. 3rd time: What number do you have? (Answer: 7) 4th time: Move 6 beads to the right. 5th time: Move 3 more beads to the right. 6th time: What number do you have now? (Answer: 9) 7th time: Take 4 beads back to the left. 8th time: What number do you have now? (Answer: 5) 9th time: Move 10 beads to the right. 10th time: What number do you have now? (Answer: 10)

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting each bead one by one instead of using groups of 5.
    Why it happens: Not noticing that the beads are grouped in 5s.
    Fix: Use the red and white groups to help you see 5s more easily.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to start with all beads on the left.
    Why it happens: Not understanding how to reset the Rekenrek.
    Fix: Always start with all beads on the left before beginning a new problem.
  • Mistake: Mixing up red and white beads when showing numbers.
    Why it happens: Not paying attention to the bead colours.
    Fix: Count the red beads first, then the white ones, to make sure you're showing the right number.
  • Mistake: Not using the Rekenrek to help with subtraction.
    Why it happens: Thinking you have to count backwards.
    Fix: Move beads to the right to show the number, then take them back to show subtraction.

Parent and carer guide

You can help your child by:
  • Using the Rekenrek at home during play or maths time
  • Encouraging your child to explain what they see with the beads
  • Playing simple games like "How many beads can you show?"
  • Noticing when your child uses the 5s pattern to help count
  • Letting them make mistakes and learn from them
Remember, the goal is not to memorise facts but to understand how numbers work. Your child might not get the answer right away, but that's okay. The Rekenrek helps them think about numbers in a new way.

Practice questions

  1. How many beads do you move to show the number 8?
  2. What number do you show if you move 4 red beads and 3 white beads?
  3. If you have 9 beads on the right and take 4 back, how many are left?
  4. What number do you show with 5 red beads and 5 white beads?
  5. How many beads do you move to show 12?
Answers:
  1. 8 beads
  2. 7
  3. 5
  4. 10
  5. 12 beads

FAQ

What is a Rekenrek?

A Rekenrek is a maths tool with two rows of 10 beads each, usually red and white, used to help children understand numbers and basic arithmetic.

How do I use a Rekenrek?

Move beads from the left to the right to show numbers, use the red and white groups to help count, and take beads back to show subtraction.

Can I make my own Rekenrek?

Yes! You can make one with a wooden frame, 20 beads (10 red, 10 white), and some string or wire.

What age is a Rekenrek good for?

Rekenreks are great for children aged 3 to 10, but can be used with younger or older children depending on their needs.

How does a Rekenrek help with learning maths?

It helps children see number relationships, understand addition and subtraction, and develop number sense through hands-on learning.