Nienhuis Montessori

Nienhuis Montessori was founded in 1929 by Albert Nienhuis, who collaborated with Maria Montessori to create products which reflected her vision of education. Nienhuis Montessori’s product range enables children to discover the world independently. We only use the best materials, created with care, commitment and attention to detail. Nienhuis Montessori combines skills with technology, and has been doing so for nearly 90 years. 

Old Factory

The History of Nienhuis Montessori

After the establishment of the first Casa dei Bambini in Rome, 1907, the news of the miracle children was quick to spread to Italy’s neighboring countries, and the rest of world. Interest in this new form of education spread to the Netherlands, and a few Dutch early childhood educators set off for Rome to study at the international teacher training courses that Maria Montessori started in 1913.

Maria Montessori with Children

As ever, the demand for and availability of good quality materials made in accordance with the scientific specifications required by Maria Montessori was a prime concern. Around 1926 a carpenter named Albert Nienhuis joined the Leermiddelen company. He was experienced in making small wooden objects, and was asked to assist with the Montessori materials. He first created the abacus, then The Geometric Cabinet and progressed on to more intricate materials such as the 1000 cube. As business grew, Mr Nienhuis’s two sons also joined the company. Time passing by, it evolved into a truly international manufacturer of Montessori materials, making the materials according to the blueprints as specified, first by Maria Montessori and Mario Montessori, and later by the AMI Materials Committee to which the Montessoris’ had delegated the responsibility of liaising with Nienhuis.

Albert Nienhuis

Nienhuis Montessori and AMI

Nienhuis Montessori has been officially endorsed by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) for decades. Over the years, AMI and Nienhuis, which almost share their “date of birth”, have grown together and both have become household names in the Montessori world.

Today, Nienhuis Montessori is one of the leading brands when it comes to Montessori materials. It still devotes to creating new opportunities for children from all cultures and socio-economic backgrounds to experience the Montessori educational approach.

In line with the Montessori vision, Nienhuis Montessori develops materials which create design and develop innovative materials aimed at supporting play and development. These materials are based on internationally proven curricula and learning goals, meaning that Nienhuis Montessori products are always of the highest quality and are geared towards the needs and wishes of its target audience. We believe in education and collaboration. 

Nienhuis Montessori History

Nienhuis Montessori Products