This is a classic Montessori teaching aid, often referred to as a “permanent box” or “ball box with tray”. It consists of a wooden box, a wooden ball, a plastic ball, a knitted ball and a wooden board with a tray on the bottom. The top of the box has a round hole through which the ball can be placed and rolled to the tray area.

Features and Uses:

1. Understanding Cause and Effect: Dropping the ball into the hole and observing it roll into the tray helps children learn the relationship between actions and outcomes.

2. Hand-Eye Coordination: Trains children to precisely coordinate their hands and eyes during the activity.

3. Fine Motor Skill Development: Grasping and placing the wooden ball helps improve fine motor skills.

4. Object Permanence Concept: By observing the ball "disappear" and "reappear," children develop an understanding of object permanence.

5. Focus and Patience: The repetitive nature of the activity enhances concentration and patience.

This material is ideal for infants over 9 months and is a key tool in Montessori sensory education, supporting cognitive, motor, and exploration skills development.