Coloured Pencils Set: 11 Colours for Metal Insets
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
Eleven dozen three sided pencils in eleven colours: red, dark blue, green, purple, yellow, orange, black, grey, pink, brown and white, chosen to match the Montessori materials. Three sided is not a style choice. A round pencil can be gripped any way at all, including the fist grip that then has to be corrected; three flats put a finger and thumb where they belong without anyone saying anything. The colours match those in the coloured inset pencil holders. Wood, for ages 3 to 6.
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”
The 11 Dozen Inset Pencils embody Montessori's principle of indirect preparation for writing.
- Refinement of the tripod pencil grip essential for writing readiness
- Development of hand strength and fine motor control through sustained drawing
- Color discrimination and aesthetic awareness through purposeful color selection
- Concentration and focus through detailed pattern work with Metal Insets
Read More
These colored pencils work in harmony with the Metal Insets, allowing children to refine their pencil grip while exploring color and design. The triangular shape naturally guides the child's fingers into the proper tripod grasp, following Montessori's belief that materials should be self-correcting. The organized presentation of 11 distinct colors in separate boxes respects the child's sensitive period for order while promoting independence. This material bridges the gap between sensorial exploration and creative expression, demonstrating how in Montessori education, every material serves multiple developmental purposes. The abundance of pencils ensures continuous work without interruption, honoring the child's concentration cycle.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the 11 color boxes on a designated shelf at child height. Arrange boxes in a specific order (suggest: red, blue, yellow, green, orange, purple, brown, pink, black, gray, white). Ensure Metal Insets are accessible nearby with paper.
- 1
Child selects one Metal Inset frame and places it on paper
Model holding the frame steady with non-dominant hand - 2
Choose desired color box and remove one pencil using tripod grip
Demonstrate the three-finger hold on the triangular pencil - 3
Trace inside the frame with controlled, continuous strokes
Show light pressure and smooth movements - 4
Remove frame and fill the shape with parallel lines in chosen direction
Start with vertical lines as they're most natural - 5
Return pencil to correct box when finished or when changing colors
Emphasize matching pencil to box label
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
AMI approved
To the association standard
Coloured Pencils Set: 11 Colours for Metal Insets
