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Math Manipulative Tubs

Trying to keep up with all the math manipulatives can drive anyone crazy! Math manipulative organization We know that things are not cheap so once you invest in these tools, it’s important to have a system in place to keep them organized. Several years ago I started using individualized math manipulative tubs in my classroom. This classroom organization trick became a huge timesaver for me during my math block!

Math manipulative tubs are the perfect tool for your math block.This classroom organization trick became a huge timesaver for me.

What Are Math Manipulative Tubs?

Math manipulative tubs are shoebox-sized plastic containers that are filled with individual sets of student manipulatives. Each set of math manipulatives is stored in baggies.

These tubs have saved me so much time during my math block. I never had to prep math manipulatives before a lesson. I also never had to worry about losing instruction time waiting on manipulatives to be passed out.

My students simply had to grab their math tub off the shelf and were ready to go. Inside the lid of their tub, I taped a label to show exactly what should be inside!

How to Use Them

During the first week of school, I always introduce our math tubs. As we are discussing each math manipulative, I am also showing them how to use the label (another favorite math manipulative organization hack).

These student-centered plastic shoe boxes are filled with all of the main manipulative students will need throughout the year. Students are responsible for managing the contents of their tub, which helps them learn life skills and keeps them accountable.

Math manipulative tubs are the perfect tool for your math block.This classroom organization trick became a huge timesaver for me.

When we are done with a lesson, my students know they need to look at their label to see how many of those manipulative they should have. If one is missing they need to check the floor or with a neighbor.  This helps them with responsibility and holds them accountable for what is inside their tub.

After I created these math tub labels, I had so many teachers just like you ask for them! I decided to make them a freebie that you can download today.

Math manipulative tubs are the perfect tool for your math block.This classroom organization trick became a huge timesaver for me.

If you’re interested in creating your own math tubs, fill out the form below to have these labels sent straight to your inbox!

How to Create Your Own Math Manipulative Tubs

I’ve had mine created for several years but you could turn this into a lesson and have your students create their own tub. They are easy to set up but can be a little time-consuming so why not have them help?

Teachers know that time is a precious commodity in the classroom. It is so important to make the most of instructional time, yet often precious moments are wasted by transitioning, prepping, and getting students ready to learn.

With the help of your students, you’ll have your math manipulative tubs set up in no time!

At the end of the year, I always have my current class check and restock their math tub to get ready for the next class.

Math Manipulative Storage Ideas

4 Ways to Organize Your Math Manipulatives is another great resource you can find that will guide you on everything you need to know to get systematized for the school year.

If you’re looking for other labels to get organized, be sure to check out my Classroom Supply Labels Bundle! You’ll find over 200 labels with a variety of sizes for whatever you may need. A blank editable template is also included so that you can create your own labels as needed.

For a behind the scenes look at my math manipulative tubs, check out my YouTube video below!

Be sure to pin the image below to come back to this math manipulative storage hack!

Math manipulative tubs are the perfect tool for your math block.This classroom organization trick became a huge timesaver for me.
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