Tray Cabinet: Custom Configuration (93 cm)
Made by Nienhuis Montessori · shipped by Heutink International (Netherlands) About the maker
This versatile tray cabinet provides an organized storage solution for multiple Montessori materials in the Montessori setting. The custom configuration features 24 red plastic trays in varying depths across three columns, allowing for systematic organization of manipulatives, art supplies, and practical life materials. The natural birch plywood construction creates a harmonious aesthetic while supporting children's independence in accessing and returning materials.
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'”
The Tray Cabinet with its 24 red plastic trays represents Maria Montessori's principle of external order supporting internal order.
- Develops visual memory through consistent material placement
- Builds executive function skills through planning material selection
- Strengthens fine motor control when sliding trays in and out
- Enhances categorical thinking by grouping similar materials
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This 93 cm cabinet enables children to independently select and return materials, as each tray creates a defined boundary for specific work. The three-column configuration with varying tray depths accommodates diverse materials from tiny beads to larger practical life implements. When children consistently find materials in their designated red trays, they develop trust in their environment and confidence in their ability to manage it. The cabinet's accessible height and systematic tray arrangement foster the child's sense of ownership over the classroom space. By providing 24 distinct storage spaces, this furniture piece allows for material rotation that maintains novelty while preserving order. The birch plywood construction paired with bright red trays creates visual clarity that helps young children distinguish between different work areas and material categories.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Position the cabinet against a wall at child height. Organize materials in trays by area: practical life in top row, sensorial in middle, mathematics or language in bottom. Label each tray's edge with a small picture or symbol.
- 1
Demonstrate removing a tray with two hands, one at each side
Show how to keep the tray level to prevent spilling contents - 2
Carry the tray to a work mat or table using proper tray-carrying technique
Walk slowly, watching where you're going, not the tray - 3
Complete the chosen work with the materials from the tray
Keep all materials on the mat to maintain boundaries - 4
Return materials to the tray exactly as found
Use a small brush to clean any spills before returning - 5
Slide the tray back into its designated slot smoothly
Listen for the gentle sound that indicates proper placement
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
In classrooms
Around the world
European brands
Nienhuis, GAM, Educo
Tray Cabinet: Custom Configuration (93 cm)
