What are the Brown Stairs?
The Brown Stairs (also known as the Broad Stair) is a popular Montessori classroom material. It provides a simple way for children to develop their visual discrimination skills and understanding of size differences.
It's made up of ten wooden rectangular prisms, all the same length but differing in height and width.
It's presented in random order and meant for children to order from largest to smallest, like in the photo.
What is the purpose?
Designed to help children develop their visual and tactile perception of size and dimension, laying the groundwork for future mathematical concepts.
It also enhances coordination, concentration, and fine motor skills as children carefully build the stairs.
What age is it appropriate for?
It's introduced in the Casa Classroom, ages 3 years and up.
Should you buy one for your child?
No, not unless you're home schooling.
Similar to the Pink Tower, the Brown Stairs are not a set of blocks. There is a specific purpose and presentation for this material. They are not meant to be used for open-ended play.
If you’re looking for an at-home alternative, you can buy Duplo or Snap Cubes. Using either of these types of blocks, you can create rectangular prisms of different heights and have your child arrange them in order from biggest to smallest.
These blocks also make great toys because they offer endless opportunities for play and learning, sparking creativity while building important skills.
