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Math in Motion: How Manipulatives Build STEM Skills at DyslexAbility.

  • Matthew Xanthopoulos
  • May 28
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jul 29



STEM learning—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—can sound like big concepts for young learners. But at DyslexAbility, we break it down in a way that makes sense for neurodiverse students. We know that maths is the backbone of STEM, and more importantly, we know that abstract maths ideas don’t click just by talking or reading about them. Our students need to see it, touch it, and move through it—that’s where math manipulatives come in.

These hands-on tools bring abstract maths to life, turning complex ideas into something students can physically explore and understand. They’re not just classroom props—they’re essential for deep, meaningful learning, especially for kids with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences.



Why Manipulatives Matter in STEM Learning


STEM isn’t just about learning facts—it’s about thinking critically, solving problems, and making connections across subjects. Manipulatives support this by engaging multiple senses and allowing students to test ideas in real time. Whether they’re building structures, mapping out patterns, or representing data from a science experiment, students are doing more than just “doing maths”—they’re learning how maths works in the real world.

This tactile learning helps solidify understanding and encourages students to experiment. They can physically model a maths idea, test a hypothesis, and see the outcome. It’s learning through doing—and it works.



Adapting Manipulatives Across Abilities

One of the best things about math manipulatives is how versatile they are. At DyslexAbility, we tailor our use of tools depending on the learner’s skill level, not by age.  Their working level is based on pre-test and post-test assements.



Real STEM, Real Tools

 

STEM is most effective when subjects are integrated, and manipulatives help make those connections visible.

  • Science: We use math tools to measure, record, and visualise experiment data. Students use place-value charts and physical graphs to explore patterns in nature and outcomes in experiments.

  • Technology: Before jumping into software, students often plan with manipulatives. For example, they might build a pattern with blocks before transferring it into a coding sequence.

  • Engineering: Through building challenges using blocks, students develop spatial awareness, problem-solving, and an understanding of symmetry and balance—all key principles in design and engineering.

  • Maths (of course!): Whether it’s fractions, multiplication, geometry, or algebra, manipulatives help students visualise relationships and understand the why behind every operation.



Bringing Coding Concepts to Life

 

We also love using manipulatives to introduce logic and coding—concepts that can be tough to explain verbally. Students might create a colour-coded sequence with blocks, then translate that into a simple algorithm. This kind of hands-on exploration helps them see how patterns become instructions, which becomes code.

For our neurodiverse learners, that’s a massive confidence booster—it demystifies technology and invites creative thinking.



Tips for Parents and Educators Using Manipulatives at Home

Want to reinforce this at home? Here are a few ways to make manipulatives work:

  • Start with structure: Introduce each tool clearly, and model how it works.

  • Link to life: Use manipulatives to connect maths to real situations—like measuring ingredients, planning a garden bed, or mapping a route.

  • Ask open questions: “How did you build that?” or “What else could you try?” promotes reflection and deeper thinking.

  • Allow time and talk: Let your child explore at their own pace—and encourage them to explain their thinking as they go.

  • Celebrate the process: Whether or not they get the “right” answer straight away, learning is happening. Praise curiosity and perseverance.



Why We Choose the Math-U-See System

At DyslexAbility, we use manipulatives that grow with your child. The Math-U-See system is our go-to because it supports learners from early number concepts to algebra and beyond. The consistent use of colour, structure, and shape helps our students see how mathematical ideas connect across topics—and across STEM.

It’s not just about understanding today’s lesson—it’s about building the foundation for tomorrow’s big ideas.



The Bottom Line

When our students can touch, build, and move through maths, they learn more than just numbers. They gain tools for thinking creatively, solving problems, and seeing the bigger picture. Manipulatives aren’t just helpful—they’re transformative. Especially in STEM, where understanding comes from doing, not just memorising.

 

At DyslexAbility, we’ll keep putting maths in motion—so every learner has the chance to thrive.

 

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