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Nienhuis MontessoriAMI Approved0 to 3 years

Toddler PuzzleFennel

The first photo is the maker's own. The other shots are illustrative.

Inv. no. NIE-044550

Maker
Nienhuis Montessori, since 1929
Approval
AMI
Product size
208 × 208 mm
Base Material
Plywood construction
Surface
Printed paper/cardstock illustrations
EAN
8719924046187
€24.90

Final price incl. VAT. Delivery €5.90, €124.10 to go for free delivery.

✓ In Stock. Delivery in 5 to 9 working days.
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Advicebefore and after
Invoicefor companies

Advice, warranty and returns are handled by us.

The original

Why it costs €24.90

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 8719924046187 is on the box. It is the maker's number, not ours.

Toddler Puzzle: Fennel: Child learning
Illustrative shot.
What the child does

Toddler Puzzle in a child's hands

A toddler puzzle of a fennel, 20.8 by 20.8 cm, cut so that each piece is a part of the plant. Fennel is an unusual choice and a deliberate one: a child who can name a bulb, a stalk and a frond on a fennel has words that work on a hundred other plants, whereas a child who only knows apples has words that work on apples. Realistic and single subject, so the vocabulary comes out one piece at a time. Plywood with printed paper, for ages 0 to 3.

Fine Motor Development

Knob handles strengthen pincer grasp while removing and replacing pieces refines hand-⁠eye coordination.

Botanical Knowledge

Layered design introduces plant life cycles and the specific characteristics of the fennel herb.

Sequential Thinking

Multiple layers teach order and progression as children discover each stage of plant growth.

Visual Discrimination

Matching puzzle pieces to their outlines develops perception of shape and spatial relationships.

Activity Guide

How to present it

Place the fennel puzzle on a low table or mat at child's working height. Ensure all three layers are properly assembled, showing the complete fennel plant.

  1. 1Demonstrate slow, deliberate removal of top layer pieces using thumb and forefinger on knobs
  2. 2Name each part as removed: 'This is the fennel frond' while placing pieces to the right
  3. 3Reveal second layer, noting changes: 'Now we see the younger fennel'
  4. 4Continue to base layer showing seeds or roots, maintaining slow pace
  5. 5Invite child to try, starting with single piece removal and replacement
3 tips for parents
  • Connect puzzle work to kitchen experiences by showing real fennel during meal preparation
  • Support language development by consistently naming parts: bulb, stalk, fronds, rather than generic terms
  • Allow extended repetition, toddlers may complete the same puzzle dozens of times while mastering the sequence
Why it is in our selection
Norbert Kovalčín

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

Details
What's in the Box
  • Fennel Botanical Puzzle: 3-⁠layer wooden puzzle with knob handles
Size and material
Product size208 × 208 mm
Packaging21 × 21 × 3 cm
Base MaterialPlywood construction
SurfacePrinted paper/cardstock illustrations
Recommended Age18 months - 3 years
Care

Wipe with slightly damp cloth, avoid water on printed areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is this fennel puzzle appropriate for?

This puzzle is designed for infants and toddlers ages 0-⁠3 years. The knob handles are perfectly sized for developing pincer grasp, making it suitable even for children as young as 12 months who are beginning to refine their fine motor skills.

How does the layered design work?

The puzzle features three progressive layers that reveal the fennel plant's growth stages from seed to full herb. As children remove each wooden piece, they discover the next stage of the plant's development, creating an engaging way to learn about plant life cycles.

What are the dimensions of this puzzle?

The puzzle measures 20×20cm (approximately 7.9×7.9 inches), providing an ideal work surface for toddlers. This size is perfect for small hands to manipulate while being large enough to clearly display the botanical illustrations.

How does this puzzle support Montessori learning?

This puzzle aligns with Montessori principles by offering concrete, hands-⁠on learning about nature and life cycles. It develops fine motor skills through knob manipulation, introduces botanical vocabulary, and follows the Montessori approach of isolating concepts through its focus on a single plant species.

Is this puzzle safe for young children?

Yes, the puzzle is specifically designed for ages 0-⁠3 with safety in mind. The wooden pieces feature knob handles that prevent choking hazards, and the smooth wooden construction ensures safe handling for young children exploring independently.

Product safety

Manufacturer: Nienhuis Montessori, Anders Celsiusstraat 15, 7442 PB Nijverdal, Netherlands