Third Colour Box63 Tablets in 9 Colour Families with Gradations
The first photos are the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.
Inv. no. NIE-005300
- Maker
- Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
- Approval
- AMI
- Box Material
- Solid wood construction
- Tablet Material
- Painted wood
- EAN
- 8719924003128
Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €7.10 to go for free delivery.
Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.
Why it costs €141.90
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 8719924003128 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.
Third Colour Box in a child's hands
Sixty three tablets covering nine colours in seven graded shades each: red, blue, yellow, green, purple, orange, brown, pink and grey. This is the last stage of colour work and by far the hardest, because seven steps within one colour means the middle pairs differ by almost nothing. A child who can lay all seven in order has a discrimination most adults would have to work at. Grading, not matching, is what this box is for. Solid wood, for ages 3 to 6.
Visual Discrimination
Refines the ability to perceive subtle differences in color intensity and develops vocabulary for describing gradations.
Sequencing Skills
Arranging tablets from light to dark builds logical thinking and prepares for mathematical concepts of seriation.
Concentration Development
The challenging nature of distinguishing similar shades promotes sustained focus and attention to detail.
Indirect Preparation
Prepares for art activities, understanding value in drawing, and scientific observation of natural phenomena.
How to present it
Place the box on a table with good natural light. Ensure a neutral-colored mat is available. Have the child wash hands to enhance tactile sensitivity. Remove tablets carefully, holding by edges to avoid fingerprints.
- 1Begin with one color family, removing all seven tablets randomly onto the mat
- 2Find the darkest and lightest tablets, placing them at opposite ends of the workspace
- 3Find the middle shade and place it between the extremes
- 4Continue finding intermediate shades, building the complete gradation
- 5Perform a three-period lesson with specific tablets: 'This is dark blue, this is medium blue, this is light blue'
- 6Mix the tablets and invite the child to grade them independently
3 tips for parents
- Support at home by noticing gradations in nature, sky colors at different times, shades of leaves, or shadows
- Avoid purchasing similar materials; the precision of Montessori tablets cannot be replicated with paint chips
- When your child shares their work, use their exact vocabulary rather than introducing new terms
If you are not sure it suits your child, we answer in person.
Norbert Kovalčín, founder of Faborino · write to him
There is no review here yet. We will ask you for one after you buy. Write the first review
What's in the Box
- Wooden storage box: With 9 compartments and dividers
- 63 color tablets: 7 shades each of 9 colors
- White dividers: Separating each color family
Size and material
| Packaging | 32 × 26 × 7 cm |
| Box Material | Solid wood construction |
| Tablet Material | Painted wood |
| Recommended Age | 3-6 years |
Care
Wipe with slightly damp cloth, dry immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prerequisites before introducing the Third Box of Color Tablets?
Children should have mastered Color Box 1 (primary colors) and Color Box 2 (secondary colors) first. They should be able to match colors accurately and have developed the concentration needed for more detailed work, typically around age 4-5.
How do I present the grading activity with this material?
Start with one color family of 7 tablets. Mix them randomly, then show the child how to arrange them from lightest to darkest. Use minimal language initially, allowing the child to rely on visual discrimination. Once mastered, introduce vocabulary like 'lighter than' and 'darker than.'
What extensions can be done with the Third Box of Color Tablets?
Extensions include matching tablets to objects in the environment, creating color wheels, combining multiple color families in patterns, memory games with specific shades, and artistic activities like painting to match the gradations. Children can also explore complementary colors and color mixing.
Why are there exactly 7 shades in each color family?
The seven gradations provide the optimal challenge for developing refined visual discrimination without overwhelming the child. This number allows children to perceive subtle differences while maintaining the ability to sequence the entire set, supporting both perceptual development and logical thinking.
How should I store and maintain these color tablets?
Store in the original wooden box with compartments to prevent mixing. Handle tablets by the edges to avoid fingerprints on the colored surfaces. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Clean gently with a dry cloth. Check periodically that all 63 tablets are present and in good condition.
Product safety
Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands
Third Colour Box