The Metal Insets (Nienhuis)
The first photos are the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-004600
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Primary Material
- Metal with painted finish
- Colors
- Blue shapes, pink frames
- EAN
- 8719924002596
€158.90
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The original
Why it costs €158.90
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 8719924002596 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.
What the child does
The Metal Insets (Nienhuis) in a child's hands
The Metal Insets are a foundational Montessori material for developing writing readiness through precise hand movements and pencil control. Each inset features a removable blue geometric shape within a pink frame, with center lifting knobs that promote the pincer grip essential for writing. This classic material bridges the gap between sensorial exploration and the practical skill of writing, making it possible for children to trace both inside and outside the shapes.
Writing Preparation
Develops the hand movements and muscle memory needed for letter formation through repetitive tracing exercises.
Pencil Control
Teaches proper pencil grip and pressure control while following the metal edges with precision.
Concentration Development
The careful tracing work requires sustained focus and attention to detail, building concentration skills.
Artistic Expression
Children create beautiful geometric designs by overlapping tracings, fostering creativity alongside skill development.
Activity Guide
How to present it
Place one inset frame on paper. Set colored pencils in a holder to the right. Have additional paper ready.
- 1Lift the blue shape by its knob using thumb and two fingers
- 2Place the frame on paper and trace inside the pink frame with a pencil
- 3Remove the frame and place the blue shape over the traced outline
- 4Trace around the outside of the blue shape
- 5Fill the shape with parallel lines from left to right
3 tips for parents
- Resist correcting 'imperfect' tracings, precision develops through practice
- Display finished designs prominently to validate the child's effort
- Provide quality colored pencils rather than crayons for better control
From the same maker
Accessories
Why it is in our selection
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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Details
What's in the Box
- Metal Insets: 10 different geometric shapes with frames
- Shapes Include: Circle, triangle, square, pentagon, and other geometric forms
Size and material
| Packaging | 15 × 15 × 8 cm |
| Primary Material | Metal with painted finish |
| Colors | Blue shapes, pink frames |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with damp cloth, dry immediately to prevent rust
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Metal Insets and how do they prepare children for writing?
The Metal Insets are Montessori materials consisting of blue geometric shapes within pink frames. Children trace inside and outside these shapes, developing the precise hand movements, pencil control, and pincer grip essential for writing. This repetitive tracing strengthens the small muscles in the hand and creates muscle memory for letter formation.
At what age should children start using the Metal Insets?
Children typically begin using Metal Insets around age 3.5-4, after they've developed basic fine motor skills through practical life activities. The material remains useful through age 6, as children progress from simple tracing to creating intricate geometric designs and patterns while refining their pencil control.
What shapes are included in the Metal Insets set?
A complete Metal Insets set includes 10 geometric shapes: circle, square, triangle, rectangle, pentagon, oval, ellipse, quatrefoil, curvilinear triangle, and trapezoid. Each shape offers different challenges for hand movement and control, progressing from simple curves to more complex angles.
How do the center lifting knobs promote proper pencil grip?
The small knobs on each metal shape are specifically designed to be grasped with the thumb and index finger, naturally positioning the hand in the pincer grip used for writing. As children repeatedly lift and place the insets, they strengthen these fingers and develop the muscle control needed for holding a pencil correctly.
What activities can children do with the Metal Insets beyond basic tracing?
Children progress from simple tracing to creating elaborate designs by overlapping shapes, filling traced outlines with parallel lines in different directions, creating patterns and mandalas, and combining multiple shapes. These extensions develop concentration, creativity, and increasingly refined pencil control while maintaining engagement with the material.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
The Metal Insets (Nienhuis)
€158.90