Hollow Number ShapesInternational Version
The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-002830
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Primary Material
- Solid wood
- Finish
- Painted surface
- EAN
- 8719924001605
Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €119.10 to go for free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €29.90
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 8719924001605 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.
Hollow Number Shapes in a child's hands
Hollow number shapes in the international version, an additional exercise for preparing a child to write numerals, from Maria Montessori's own idea as set out in The Discovery Of The Child. The international and US versions differ in how the numerals themselves are formed, and that matters more than it sounds: a child who traces a one with a serif and then meets a plain stroke at school has been taught a shape they now have to unlearn. Wood with non toxic paint, for ages 3 to 6.
Number Formation Skills
The engraved channels guide proper stroke order and direction, establishing correct writing patterns from the start.
Tactile Learning
Tracing through the grooves provides sensory feedback that reinforces number recognition through touch and movement.
Pre-Writing Development
Builds fine motor control and hand strength essential for later pencil work and mathematical notation.
Mathematical Foundation
Connects the abstract concept of numbers with concrete, physical experience through repetitive sensorial exploration.
How to present it
Place the wooden boards on a mat in numerical order from 0-9. Have a small tray with sand or salt nearby for extension work. Ensure the child can see the starting point clearly marked on each board.
- 1Demonstrate tracing the numeral 1, using your dominant index finger to follow the routed channel from start to finish
- 2Invite the child to trace the same numeral, watching as their finger follows the carved pathway
- 3Continue with numerals 2 and 3, always starting at the marked beginning point
- 4After tracing in the boards, invite the child to 'write' the same numeral in sand or on paper
3 tips for parents
- Resist guiding your child's hand, let the wooden channels provide the guidance while you observe
- Practice one numeral thoroughly before moving to the next, allowing mastery through repetition
- Notice which numerals your child chooses repeatedly, this reveals their current learning edge
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
- Number Boards 0-9: 10 individual wooden boards
- Wooden Tracing Stick: For guided number formation
Size and material
| Packaging | 12 × 9 × 6 cm |
| Primary Material | Solid wood |
| Finish | Painted surface |
| Channels | Precision-routed grooves |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group is this material designed for?
The Hollow Number Shapes are designed for children ages 3-6 years old, aligning with the sensitive period for mathematical concepts and fine motor development in early childhood.
How do children use these number boards?
Children trace the routed channels with their fingers or a wooden stylus, following the correct formation pattern for each numeral. This tactile experience helps develop proper number writing habits and muscle memory.
What skills does this material develop?
This material develops number recognition, proper numeral formation, fine motor control, hand-eye coordination, and pre-writing skills. It also provides sensorial preparation for mathematical concepts.
What is included in the International Version?
The set includes 10 wooden boards featuring numerals 0-9 with precisely routed channels. The International Version uses standard Western Arabic numerals commonly used in European and international contexts.
How does this differ from traditional number writing practice?
Unlike paper-based practice, these boards provide physical boundaries that guide correct formation. The tactile feedback helps children self-correct and builds muscle memory before transitioning to writing on paper.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Hollow Number Shapes