Pink Tower

Pink Tower

Create your own 2D version of the Montessori Pink Tower to introduce your child to size gradation. The Pink Tower also indirectly acquaints children with the concept of base ten and the decimal system in mathematics. It is one of the most iconic sensorial materials and introduces early mathematical thinking through size comparison and proportion. This activity builds early observation skills by encouraging children to notice differences in size and sequence each piece gradually.

In our video demonstration, we explore how the Pink Tower introduces the third dimension through the cube. In this printable version, children work with squares of increasing size to replicate the same experience in two dimensions. The largest square measures ten times the area of the smallest, reflecting the proportional relationship found in the traditional Pink Tower.

As children manipulate the pieces, they learn to scan, compare, and order the squares by size. This promotes concentration and visual discrimination, while also providing a strong sensory foundation for future math and geometry work.

Engage in this activity during a quiet part of the day when your child is calm and focused. Encourage them to slow down and use both hands to place each piece carefully. This mindful movement not only improves coordination but also helps your child develop a habit of working with intention and order.

Home Lesson One: Seriation Largest to Smallest

  1. Print and laminate the Pink Tower sheets, cut out the 10 individual pink squares, and place them in a container
  2. Prepare your work space with a small rug or towel/bath mat on the floor
  3. Invite your child: “I have an activity to show you”
  4. Place the Pink Tower squares randomly in front of you
  5. Scanning with your hand over the pink squares say: “I am looking for the biggest one”
  6. Take and place the biggest square in the centre on the left side of your rug/towel
  7. Repeat step five and place the square immediately to the right of the previous square, keeping it centred
  8. Invite your child to continue with the activity until they have placed all the 10 squares from largest to smallest
  9. Remember to have your child pack away

This activity supports independent thinking and gives children the opportunity to self-correct through visual feedback.

Home Lesson Two: Seriation Smallest to Largest

  1. Complete the above activity starting from smallest to largest

This variation encourages your child to reverse their thinking and compare with more precision.

Pink Tower Printable

  1. Pink Tower

The printable includes 10 pink squares in increasing size, proportionally accurate to the original Pink Tower material. Children can cut out and sequence the squares as part of visual discrimination and seriation exercises.

You may wish to store the cut-out squares in a small pouch or envelope to make the activity easier to set up and repeat independently.

Download Printable

Curriculum Area

  • Sensorial

Age Group

  • 2 – 5 years

Aims

  • Develop visual discrimination and comparison by size
  • Preparation for base ten in mathematics
  • Support sequencing, concentration, and order
  • Introduce proportional relationships through sensorial learning