Square Based PrismGeometric Solid for Spatial Exploration
The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-018801
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Product size
- 10 × 10 cm
- Primary Material
- Solid wood
- Finish
- High-gloss lacquer coating
- EAN
- 8719924009915
Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €77.10 to go for free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €71.90
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 8719924009915 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Square Based Prism in a child's hands
The square based prism is the reference solid of the volume set: a base of 10 by 10 cm and a height of 20 cm, which is a hundred square centimetres of base carried up through twenty, or two litres. Every other solid in the set is derived from those same measurements, so this is the one a child fills first and then compares everything against. Starting from a solid whose volume can be worked out by multiplying three numbers you can see is what makes the harder ones approachable. Sold individually, for ages 6 to 12.
Geometric Understanding
Introduces rectangular prisms and square bases, building foundation for advanced geometry and volume calculations
Spatial Intelligence
Develops three-dimensional thinking through exploration of faces, edges, and vertices
Mathematical Concepts
Concrete representation of abstract mathematical principles including area, perimeter, and volume
Sensorial Refinement
The smooth surface and precise edges refine tactile discrimination and visual perception
How to present it
Place the Square Based Prism on a mat alongside other geometric solids. Have sheets of paper and pencils available for tracing work. Ensure the child has experience with the basic Geometric Solids presentation.
- 1Invite the child to carry the prism carefully to the mat, holding it with both hands
- 2Explore the prism tactilely, running fingers along edges and counting faces, edges, and vertices
- 3Compare the square base with the rectangular faces, noting similarities and differences
- 4Trace around the base and sides on paper to create a net of the prism
- 5Find objects in the environment that have the same form
3 tips for parents
- Look for prism shapes during everyday activities - tissue boxes, building blocks, or gift boxes - and use proper geometric vocabulary
- Support your child's exploration by providing materials to create their own prisms using cardboard or clay
- Avoid rushing to abstract concepts; allow plenty of time for sensorial exploration before introducing mathematical formulas
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
- Square Based Prism: 10×20×10 cm lacquered wooden solid
Size and material
| Product size | 10 × 10 cm |
| Packaging | 25 × 13 × 13 cm |
| Primary Material | Solid wood |
| Finish | High-gloss lacquer coating |
| Recommended Age | 6-12 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of this Square Based Prism?
While specific measurements vary by manufacturer, this square based prism is typically designed to be proportional to other Montessori geometric solids, usually measuring between 10-15cm in height with a square base of approximately 5-7cm per side, making it comfortable for children's hands to manipulate.
How does this prism fit into the Montessori geometry curriculum?
The Square Based Prism is part of the geometric solids series, typically introduced after children have mastered basic sensorial materials. It helps bridge sensorial exploration with mathematical concepts, preparing children for advanced geometry work including volume calculations, surface area studies, and understanding of three-dimensional shapes.
What is the glossy lacquered finish for?
The high-quality lacquered finish serves multiple purposes: it provides a smooth, appealing tactile experience that engages the child's sense of touch, makes the material durable and easy to clean, and creates visual appeal that draws children to explore the material independently, which is essential in Montessori education.
What specific skills does working with this prism develop?
Children develop spatial reasoning, three-dimensional visualization, mathematical vocabulary (edges, vertices, faces), fine motor control through handling, comparison and classification skills, and preparation for advanced geometry concepts. It also supports cross-curricular connections with art, architecture, and engineering concepts.
How should this prism be presented to children ages 6-12?
Begin by allowing sensorial exploration, then introduce vocabulary (square base, rectangular faces, edges, vertices). Progress to comparing with other geometric solids, creating impressions in sand or clay, drawing different perspectives, measuring dimensions, and eventually calculating surface area and volume as children advance mathematically.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Square Based Prism