Touch Math is a program that teaches numbers using visual and tactile methods. It assigns each number from 1 to 9 a unique pattern of dots. Students learn the value of each number by seeing and touching the corresponding dot pattern. Touch Math provides manipulatives, worksheets, and computer games to reinforce number recognition through multisensory practice counting the dots on each printed number icon. It is particularly beneficial for both typical students and those with special needs.

1. Teaching Touch Math Basics Touch Math is Easy by Michelle R. Smith

2. Touch Math basic principles incorporate sensory and visual learning. Touch Math is a program that is being used within the school system to assist students, both regular education and special education students.

3. Touch Math provides manipulatives to assist with teaching the basics, worksheets to practice the concept and there is even a computer program for "fun" learning of the concept.

4. Touch Math provides an opportunity for the individual to learn basic counting practices by using both visual and tactile sensories.

5. Basic Concept The numbers one through 9 are used. Each number has a dot that corresponds with that number. For example: The number one has one dot on it. The number two has two dots on it. The number three has three dots on it. And so on up to and including the number 9.

6. An Example of the Numbers These images were copied from http://www.touchmath.com/images/grid.jpg

7. Teaching Concept The individual is taught the concept, through visualization and touch, that by counting the number of dots on the number that they can identify what that number is. For example: Identify the number for the student. Demonstrate that there is one dot on the number one. Continue with this demonstration until you get to the number five.

8. When you get to the number six you will have to explain that there is not enough room on the number to place six dots. At this time you will need to explain the concept of having a "double dot": a larger dot with a smaller dot in the center of it. Demonstrate that you count this "dobule dot" as two - Touch the "double dot" twice as you count it: one, two. There will be three sets of double dots on six. Count each dot twice.

9. When you get to the number seven you will notice that there is a combination of dots: single and double. You will need to continue reinforcing the "dobule dot" concept. As you touch the number seven you will count it as such: (single dot) 1; (double dot) 2 and 3; (double dot) 4 and 5; (double dot) 6 and 7).

10. Overview The concept of Touch Math is AWESOME. This program benefits both the visual and tactile learners. The continual repetition of counting builds an association between numbers and manipulatives and will enable any child to learn to count.