Coloured Counting BarsTen Graduated Wooden Mathematical Bars
The first photos are the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-019300
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Bars
- Solid wood with paint finish
- Storage Tray
- Natural wood with compartments
- EAN
- 8719924010324
Final price incl. VAT. Free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €449.90
Behind the price of the original are things you can check yourself.
AMI approval
The material is approved by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Nienhuis has made Montessori materials since 1929.
A verifiable original
The EAN 8719924010324 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Coloured Counting Bars in a child's hands
Ten wooden bars in graduated lengths, each a different colour, so a quantity can be recognised two ways at once: by how long it is and by which colour it is. The child lays them in a stair, sees that each bar is exactly one unit longer than the last, and meets the idea of a number line as a physical object before ever drawing one. Because the bars are separate, they also handle early addition: put the three and the seven end to end and the ten is right there to check against. Painted and natural wood, for ages 3 to 6.
Mathematical Foundation
Builds concrete understanding of quantity, sequence, and numerical relationships through visual and tactile exploration.
Visual Discrimination
Develops ability to perceive differences in length and associate colors with specific quantities.
Order and Sequence
Reinforces concepts of gradation, seriation, and logical ordering from smallest to largest.
Preparation for Mathematics
Provides sensorial foundation for later work with number rods, addition, and subtraction operations.
How to present it
Place the bars on a large work mat in random order. Ensure adequate space for the child to arrange the bars horizontally with clear spacing between each.
- 1Invite the child to carry the smallest bar with two hands, placing it at the top left of the mat
- 2Select the next shortest bar, comparing it visually and physically to the first
- 3Continue building the stair pattern from shortest to longest, aligning left edges precisely
- 4Once complete, verify the sequence by running a finger along the diagonal created by the right edges
- 5Count each bar by pointing to it and naming its quantity, associating color with number
3 tips for parents
- Resist the urge to correct errors immediately - allow your child to discover mistakes through their own observation
- Create opportunities for indirect preparation at home by arranging objects by size or discussing quantities during daily activities
- Support mathematical language development by using precise vocabulary about quantity and comparison in everyday conversation
If you are not sure it suits your child, we answer in person.
Norbert Kovalčín, founder of Faborino · write to him
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What's in the Box
- Colored wooden bars: Set of 10 in graduated lengths
- Wooden storage tray: With individual compartments
Size and material
| Packaging | 32 × 31 × 5 cm |
| Bars | Solid wood with paint finish |
| Storage Tray | Natural wood with compartments |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What mathematical concepts do the Colored Counting Bars teach?
The Colored Counting Bars introduce number sequence 1-10, visual discrimination of length, one-to-one correspondence, and the concrete representation of quantity. Children learn addition, subtraction basics, and develop number sense through manipulating the graduated bars.
How do children work with this material in the classroom?
Children begin by arranging bars from shortest to longest, learning to visually discriminate length differences. They count each unit, match quantities to numerals, and eventually use the bars for simple arithmetic operations and pattern creation.
What makes this material worth the investment?
Each bar is precisely crafted to exact measurements with durable hardwood construction and non-toxic paint finishes. The material supports years of mathematical learning from ages 3-6, building foundational concepts that prepare children for advanced mathematics.
How does the color coding support learning?
Each bar's distinct color helps children associate specific quantities with visual cues, enhancing memory and recognition. The consistent color-number relationship aids in quick identification and supports children who learn better through color association.
What skills should children have before using this material?
Children should have experience with sensorial discrimination activities and be able to handle materials carefully. Basic counting skills to 10 and the ability to follow multi-step presentations are helpful, though the material itself teaches these concepts.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Coloured Counting Bars