montessori development toys for hands on learning

How Montessori Development Toys Encourage Hands-on Learning?

Encouraging children with words is an impractical choice, but now parents and institutes can transform how kids learn with Montessori toys to promote fine and motor skills. Even in educational settings, Montessori has become a primary choice in the curriculum for cognitive and sensory development among children.


According to Dr Monstessori's Philosophy


“Play is the work of the child.”


And according to the Alfie Kohn


“The most effective way to ensure a child's future is to make sure that they love learning.”


Both sayings highlight the importance of developing toys in today’s world. According to research insight, the brain processes and retains information better when associated with physical actions or sensory experiences; even  a study from 2001 in HASKELL highlights that motor experiences activate brain areas more in cognitive functions and support practical learning . This means when a kiddo plays with a stacking balance of rocks or organizes a leaf puzzle, they learn more actively for a longer period than just asking them to draw a stacking balance of stones.


Let’s discuss Montessori toys in depth and their role in hands-on learning.

The Logic Behind Montessori Education

If Montessori toys were described, they would be: “Montessori Toys prioritize hands-on learning for improving children's fine and gross motor skills. In these activities, the kids engage muscles and coordinate themselves in physical activities. The toys used in development enhance the exploration and understanding of the world through touch and movement.


In today’s world of technology, where educational methods come and go, Montessori teaching toys, with  the principle of fundamental learning  guide, are still standing. These toys not only emphasize Simplicity rather than clutter, Natural materials, and Creative and problem-solving skill-building But also nurture curiosity and independence among children. According to the sets of principles of the theory 

1. Parent/Teacher Education

According to parents' philosophy, caregivers and teachers play the most evident role in children's learning and development. 

2. Multi-age Approach

The Montessori teaching toys are designed for kids of all ages and are best fit for children 3-6 years old so they can play together and learn more together.

3. Skill development with Toys

Toys play a massive role in creativity, skill development, hands-on exploration, and related skills. Their natural materials also ensure children's safety.

4. Methods Focusing on Child

The Montessori teaching methods focus on the child rather than the results. So your kiddo can learn during the process with more ease and interest.

5. Learning Session Without Interruption

The Montessori method is best used when learning sessions are unrestricted. This means that children are free to play and learn when and as much as they want.

The Role of Montessori Toys in Learning

What is the role of montessori development toys in this tech-driven world? Technology has come a long way, but there are still things a child cannot learn by just looking at the screen of a tablet, TV, or mobile phone. You can learn about its drawbacks and why  you should not introduce a child to screen.


But, There is a lot they can learn and develop by playing in a Montessori classroom or educational setting while having access to learning toys. Although the list is too long, we have shortened a few benefits for you, which are

1. Cognitive Development

Montessori toys like Puzzles, beam balances, and matching games play an evident role in children's skill development. They learn about different types of colors, improve their problem-solving abilities, and engage their minds in healthy activities. Kids learn to be curious, take risks, and tackle challenges by experimenting and finding creative solutions.

2. Motor Skills

Bead threading and lacing toys can enhance the development of fine motor skills. For example, the balance between touch and movement skills in the climbing structure helps in the interconnectedness of physical activities. It's far better regarding a comprehensive understanding of the real world.

3. Sensory, social and Emotional Development

The most significant focus in defining S and E skills lies with the educator/parent. However, introducing a toy like a wooden rainbow that you usually find in your Montessori home or a pulling snail improves the playtime and lets the child bond with the parent.

Cross-Check Before Choosing a Montessori Toy

Little ones are always precious, and so are their toys. But are you making a suitable choice for them? Are you thoughtfully crafting a playroom for kids with Montessori toys without cluttering the space?


Well, let’s simplify it a lot so you can buy what plays a role in hands-on learning, independence, and creativity. The toys should be

1. Eco-friendly Material

Always choose eco-friendly materials such as wood and metal instead of plastic. These materials are sensory-rich and engage kids with nature as well. So pick one from the  toys collection that increases the sense of touch and exploration in kiddos.

2. Durability and Sustainability

Consider durability and sustainability factors when purchasing Montessori toys in Canada. Products designed with suitable materials reduce the need for constant replacement. Moreover, sustainable materials also contribute to an environmentally conscious future. 

3. Open-ended vs. Closed-ended

Choose the open-ended and closed-ended toys wisely, from montessori development toys to exploring  furniture collections. These two are different. One that plays a role in imagination-building is an open-ended toy, as it enables children to develop creativity, independence, and cognitive abilities. While other toys, such as puzzles, play a specific role in the development field, especially mental development.


Note: You can mix open-ended and closed-ended toys well in your educational Montessori setting.

4. Age considerations

As with most Montessori toys, the toys sought target children in different age brackets. 

  • Infants and babies can choose toys that stimulate their sense organs, such as rattle toys and fabric toys. 
  • Meanwhile, toddlers need toys they can handle and move in the room, such as building blocks and stacking rings. 

Expected Learning Outcomes

The following are the benefits of including Montessori development toys for school programs. 

  • His fine motor skills are enhanced as the child plays with the Montessori toys and bends and moves them in various ways. 

  • The ability to coordinate hand and eye movements is developed through several tasks that improve movement coordination in visual input. 

  • Cognitive knowledge is developed mainly in the domain of critical thinking for children when they engage in cause-and-effect searches, as well as their concentration and completion of activities.  

Kinderhuis: Go Beyond Mere Playthings

Montessori toys offer an exceptional way to encourage hands-on learning in schools. By providing opportunities for  independent exploration, cognitive development, and sensory engagement , these toys align with Kinderhuis Montessori principles and cater to diverse learning needs. For educators looking to enrich their curriculum and support their students’ growth by integrating Montessori development toys into the classroom, Kinderhuis has the solution in the form of toys, furniture, and spare parts collection. Through thoughtful design and purposeful play, our toys help create a learning environment where children thrive and discover the joy of learning through hands-on experiences.

Back to blog