
Geometric SolidsTen 3D Forms for Tactile Shape Exploration
The first photos are the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-004800
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Solids
- Painted wood with smooth finish
- Stands
- Clear acrylic
- EAN
- 8719924002657
Final price incl. VAT. Free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €170.90
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 8719924002657 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Geometric Solids in a child's hands
Ten solid forms introducing solid geometry through the hands, with three clear stands included for the ones that will not sit still. A sphere, a cone and an ovoid roll, and that is not a flaw to be corrected: how a solid behaves when you set it down is part of what it is. The child handles each with eyes closed, learns the names, then finds the same forms in the room, in a tin, a ball, the leg of a table. Painted wood with clear stands, for ages 3 to 6.
Stereognostic Sense
Children develop the ability to recognize forms through touch, building neural pathways for spatial understanding.
Mathematical Foundation
Direct preparation for geometry by experiencing 3D forms that correspond to their 2D representations.
Language Development
Introduces precise geometric vocabulary through concrete, manipulable objects that children can explore.
Visual Discrimination
Refines the ability to perceive subtle differences in form, preparing for later mathematical concepts.
How to present it
Place the basket of Geometric Solids on a mat. Prepare a second mat nearby for the three-period lesson. Ensure hands are clean and sensitized.
- 1Invite the child and bring one solid at a time to the mat, handling each with care using both hands
- 2Take the sphere first, roll it between your palms and on the mat, emphasizing its continuous curved surface
- 3Introduce the cube, exploring its flat faces, straight edges, and sharp vertices with fingertips
- 4Present contrasting pairs (sphere/cube, ovoid/ellipsoid) to highlight differences
- 5Introduce stereognostic exercise: child closes eyes while you place a solid in their hands to identify
- 6Conduct three-period lesson for vocabulary once child knows solids through touch
3 tips for parents
- Find household objects matching the geometric solids (ball/sphere, box/rectangular prism) for real-world connections
- Practice the stereognostic game during daily activities using familiar objects in a mystery bag
- Use solid names naturally in conversation: 'The Earth is a sphere' or 'Let's pack this cylindrical container'
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
- Cube: Blue painted wood
- Sphere: With clear stand
- Cylinder: Blue painted wood
- Cone: Blue painted wood
- Rectangular Prism: Blue painted wood
- Triangular Prism: Blue painted wood
- Square-Based Pyramid: Blue painted wood
- Triangular-Based Pyramid: Blue painted wood
- Ovoid: With clear stand
- Ellipsoid: With clear stand
Size and material
| Packaging | 28 × 12 × 21 cm |
| Solids | Painted wood with smooth finish |
| Stands | Clear acrylic |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What geometric shapes are included in this set?
The set includes 10 geometric solids: sphere, cube, cylinder, cone, triangular prism, rectangular prism, ovoid, ellipsoid, triangular pyramid, and square pyramid. Each solid is crafted with smooth surfaces and precise dimensions for optimal tactile exploration.
How do children use the Geometric Solids in Montessori activities?
Children explore the solids through touch with eyes closed to develop stereognostic sense, match them to corresponding 2D base cards, sort by properties like curved vs. straight surfaces, and learn mathematical vocabulary. Activities progress from simple exploration to complex classification and comparison exercises.
What skills do children develop with this material?
Children develop stereognostic sense (recognizing forms through touch), visual discrimination, mathematical vocabulary, spatial reasoning, and preparation for geometry. The material also enhances fine motor control, concentration, and establishes connections between 2D and 3D forms.
At what age should children start using the Geometric Solids?
Typically introduced around age 3.5-4, after children have worked with other sensorial materials like the Pink Tower and Brown Stair. The child should demonstrate good motor control and ability to concentrate. The material remains engaging through age 6 as children discover more complex relationships.
Are the solids made of wood and why are they blue?
Yes, the solids are crafted from high-quality wood with a smooth, vibrant blue finish. The blue color is traditional in Montessori materials as it provides visual consistency while allowing children to focus on the forms themselves rather than being distracted by varying colors or wood grains.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Geometric Solids
