The Stars Exercise
The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-085000
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Board
- Laminated cardboard
- Storage Boxes
- Natural wood
- EAN
- 8719924015138
Final price incl. VAT. Free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €173.90
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 8719924015138 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.
The Stars Exercise in a child's hands
An introduction to the night sky that starts with the whole and works inward, which is the Montessori order for cosmic subjects: the universe first, then the significant stars and planets within it. A child who is given the sky as a single thing before any constellation has somewhere to put each new name. Includes a map of the skies. Astronomy is unusual in that the material a child needs is mostly outdoors and free; what this supplies is the frame for looking at it. Card, wood and plastic, for ages 3 to 6.
Spatial Intelligence
Mapping constellations develops spatial reasoning and pattern recognition skills essential for geometry and navigation.
Scientific Interest
Introduces astronomy concepts concretely, fostering curiosity about natural phenomena and the universe.
Fine Motor Control
Placing pegs precisely on constellation points refines pincer grip and hand-eye coordination.
Concentration
The detailed work of matching star patterns promotes sustained focus and attention to detail.
How to present it
Place the constellation board on a table at child height. Arrange wooden peg boxes by size or color if differentiated. Stack transparent overlay discs nearby in order of complexity, starting with simple constellations.
- 1Invite the child to select one transparent overlay disc and place it carefully over the constellation board
- 2Demonstrate placing the first wooden peg through the overlay into the corresponding hole on the board
- 3Allow the child to continue placing pegs for all stars shown on the overlay
- 4Once complete, carefully lift the overlay to reveal the constellation pattern formed by the pegs
- 5Invite the child to trace the constellation shape with their finger, connecting the wooden pegs
3 tips for parents
- Support classroom learning by identifying real constellations during evening walks or backyard stargazing
- Create simple constellation viewers using cardboard tubes and pin holes to practice pattern recognition
- Visit planetariums or use astronomy apps to reinforce constellation identification in different contexts
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
- Constellation Board: Large dark blue board with star patterns
- Wooden Storage Boxes: With compartments for colored pegs
- Colored Pegs: For marking constellation points
- Transparent Overlays: Approx. 6 circular constellation guides
Size and material
| Packaging | 58 × 46 × 6 cm |
| Board | Laminated cardboard |
| Storage Boxes | Natural wood |
| Overlays | Transparent plastic |
| Recommended Age | 6-12 years |
Care
Wipe board with damp cloth; clean overlays with mild soap
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are included in The Stars Exercise set?
The set includes a large constellation board, wooden peg boxes with pegs, transparent overlay discs showing constellation patterns, and activity cards. All components are made from high-quality, child-safe materials designed for repeated use in Montessori environments.
How does this exercise support early astronomy learning?
Children physically map constellations by placing pegs on the board to match star patterns shown on the overlay discs. This hands-on approach helps them understand spatial relationships between stars, recognize major constellations, and develop an early interest in astronomy through sensorial exploration.
What specific skills does The Stars Exercise develop?
This material develops fine motor skills through peg placement, visual discrimination when matching patterns, spatial awareness, concentration, and sequential thinking. It also introduces basic astronomy concepts and encourages scientific observation skills appropriate for ages 3-6.
Can this be used independently by young children?
Yes, after an initial presentation, children aged 3-6 can work independently with this material. The self-correcting overlay discs allow children to check their own work, promoting autonomy and confidence while exploring constellation patterns at their own pace.
How does this align with Montessori cultural studies curriculum?
The Stars Exercise fits perfectly within the Montessori cultural studies area, bridging geography and science. It provides concrete, manipulative experiences with abstract concepts, follows the principle of isolation of difficulty, and connects children to their place in the universe through hands-on exploration.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
The Stars Exercise