
Cylinder Block No. 3Height Decreases as Diameter Increases
The first photos are the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-002100
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Primary Material
- Solid hardwood
- Finish
- Lacquer or varnish
- EAN
- 8719924000561
Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €64.10 to go for free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €84.90
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 8719924000561 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Cylinder Block No. 3 in a child's hands
The Cylinder Block No. 3 features ten cylinders that decrease in diameter while maintaining the same height, developing the child's visual discrimination of dimension. This fundamental Sensorial material isolates the concept of diameter, empowering children to refine their perception through matching each cylinder to its corresponding socket. The smooth, polished finish and precisely calibrated gradations make this an essential tool for developing order, concentration, and preparation for mathematical concepts.
Visual Discrimination
Isolates the concept of diameter, training the eye to perceive subtle differences in dimension.
Order and Sequence
Develops understanding of gradation and seriation, fundamental for mathematical thinking.
Fine Motor Control
Knobbed cylinders develop pincer grip essential for writing preparation.
Problem Solving
Self-correcting design allows independent discovery and builds confidence in judgment.
How to present it
Place the cylinder block on a table mat at the child's dominant side. Ensure good lighting and a quiet environment. The child should be seated comfortably with clear access to the material.
- 1Remove cylinders one by one using thumb and two fingers, placing them randomly on the mat
- 2Select the thickest cylinder and find its socket by visual inspection, then test the fit
- 3Continue matching cylinders to sockets, working from extremes (thickest/thinnest) toward the middle
- 4When complete, remove and replace cylinders one by one to verify correct placement
3 tips for parents
- At home, offer sorting activities with household items of varying widths like containers or tubes
- Resist the urge to correct mistakes, the child learns more from discovering errors independently
- Create a quiet, dedicated workspace where your child can concentrate without interruption
Accessories and spare parts
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
- Wooden cylinder block: With 10 graduated sockets
- 10 wooden cylinders: Each with knobbed handle
Size and material
| Packaging | 47 × 10 × 9 cm |
| Primary Material | Solid hardwood |
| Finish | Lacquer or varnish |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cylinder Block No. 3 different from the other cylinder blocks?
Cylinder Block No. 3 uniquely features cylinders that decrease in diameter while maintaining the same height. This isolates the concept of diameter/width, whereas Block No. 1 varies in both diameter and height, Block No. 2 varies in diameter with increasing height, and Block No. 4 varies only in height.
How does this material prepare children for mathematics?
The cylinder block develops visual discrimination, seriation skills, and understanding of gradation - all foundational for mathematical concepts. Children learn to order by size, recognize patterns, and develop the hand-eye coordination needed for writing numbers. The one-to-one correspondence between cylinders and sockets also introduces early counting concepts.
What is the recommended presentation sequence for this material?
First, demonstrate removing all cylinders and placing them randomly on the mat. Then, visually compare cylinders to find the correct socket for each, starting with extremes (largest/smallest). Use a three-finger grip to develop pencil grasp. The child should work independently, self-correcting through trial and error.
Can children use multiple cylinder blocks together?
Yes, once children master individual blocks, they can combine two, three, or all four blocks as an extension activity. This creates more complex discrimination challenges and helps children discover relationships between the different dimensional variations across all blocks.
Why is the smooth, polished finish important?
The polished finish serves multiple purposes: it provides sensorial feedback through touch, encourages careful handling, allows cylinders to fit precisely without friction, and maintains the material's durability. The aesthetic quality also attracts children and shows respect for their work.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Cylinder Block No. 3



