The development of the place value system and its universal use demonstrate the elegance and efficiency of mathematics. This paper examines the concept of place value by: (1) presenting the historical development of the concept of place value in the Hindu-Arabic system; (2) considering the evolution of the number zero and its role in place value; (3) discussing the difficulties children have in understanding place value; (4) describing strategies to teach place value and 12 teaching activities that utilize manipulative materials and hands-on approaches; (5) discussing how the suggested activities make the transition from concrete experiences to symbolic understanding of place value; and (6) suggesting ways to assess children's understanding of place value. (Contains 16 references.) (MDH)