2 Bells Mounted: A
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
A, the natural that orchestras tune to and the reference pitch most adults can hum without thinking. That gives it a quiet advantage in a classroom: an adult can check the bell against a tuning fork or a phone and know the set is honest. For the child none of that matters, only whether this bell and that bell sound the same, which is decided with the eyes anywhere but on the bells. Metal on a wooden base, for ages 3 to 6.
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'”
The 2 Bells Mounted introduce precise auditory discrimination through their clear, resonant tones produced by polished metal domes. In Montessori education, these desk bells address the critical developmental need for refining hearing acuity during the sensitive period for sensorial exploration between ages 3-6.
- Develops acute auditory discrimination through matching identical tones
- Refines ability to perceive subtle differences in pitch and timbre
- Strengthens concentration through focused listening exercises
- Builds vocabulary for describing sound qualities (loud, soft, high, low)
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The paired design of these bells enables children to isolate the quality of sound as a distinct sensory attribute, separate from visual or tactile characteristics. Each bell's turned wooden handle with decorative finial provides a specific gripping point that promotes proper hand positioning while striking. The stable wooden bases ensure the bells remain stationary during use, allowing children to focus entirely on the auditory experience. Through working with these precision-crafted bells, children develop the ability to perceive subtle differences in pitch, timbre, and resonance, foundational skills for later musical education and language development.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place both bells on a mat, spaced apart. Have the child sit comfortably where they can reach both bells easily. Ensure a quiet environment for optimal sound perception.
- 1
Demonstrate striking one bell gently with its handle, allowing the tone to ring fully before it fades
Model waiting in silence until the sound completely disappears - 2
Strike the second bell in the same manner, listening to its complete tone
Keep movements slow and deliberate to emphasize the listening process - 3
Strike the first bell again, then immediately the second, comparing their tones
Ask 'Do these sound the same or different?' without providing the answer - 4
Invite the child to strike each bell, exploring how different striking forces create varied volumes
Guide discovery of the relationship between force and volume naturally - 5
If tones match, celebrate the recognition; if different, acknowledge the observation
Avoid correcting, let the child's ear develop through repeated exposure
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
2 Bells Mounted: A
