The Simple Commands: Set 2 is a Educational Materials Montessori material designed for children aged 3-6, crafted by Nienhuis Montessori to AMI standards.
The Simple Commands: Set 2 cards build upon foundational reading skills with clear, action-oriented phrases that encourage purposeful movement and comprehension. Each card features precise black text on white cardstock, presenting commands that children can read independently and execute, strengthening the connection between written language and physical response while developing reading fluency and following multi-step directions.
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”— Maria MontessoriEducation and Peace
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
— Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
Simple Commands: Set 2 cards serve as a bridge between the child's emerging reading ability and their need for meaningful action in the classroom. The precise black text on white cardstock eliminates visual distractions, allowing children to focus entirely on decoding the written commands. These command cards transform reading from an abstract exercise into a purposeful activity where comprehension immediately manifests through movement. Each card's action-oriented phrase creates a natural control of error—when children correctly read and execute the command, they experience the satisfaction of successful communication through text. The multi-step directions on these cards challenge children to hold sequences in their working memory while coordinating their movements. By presenting commands that require physical response, Set 2 addresses the developmental need for children to connect symbolic representation with concrete action, making reading a full-body experience rather than a passive mental exercise.
Each order includes everything needed for proper presentation and long-term use.
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Child selects one card and reads it silently
Child performs the action described on the card
Child returns card face down and selects another
Continue until interest wanes or all cards are completed
Every material is carefully selected for durability, safety, and authentic Montessori experience.
Sourced from sustainably managed European forests. Beechwood is chosen for its exceptional durability, smooth grain, and natural warmth that invites touch.
Natural, unbleached cotton in child-friendly colors. The fabric provides the right amount of friction for developing fingers while being gentle on sensitive skin.
Water-based, child-safe finish that meets the strictest European safety standards. Designed to withstand years of daily use without chipping or peeling.
Each material supports multiple areas of child development simultaneously.
Progresses from simple words to complete action phrases, building confidence in decoding and comprehension.
Connects written language with physical actions, reinforcing understanding through kinesthetic learning.
Develops ability to process and execute multi-step instructions independently.
Encourages verbal repetition and discussion of completed actions, strengthening oral language skills.
Designed for child-sized hands
Professional tips from AMI-trained guides to maximize the educational value of this material.
“Introduce cards gradually, starting with 4-5 and adding more as competency grows”
Model the activity silently first, demonstrating careful reading and precise execution
Create a designated movement space to prevent disruption of other work
Document which commands children master to inform individualized reading progression
Everything you need to know about this material.
Set 2 features more complex multi-step commands and action sequences that build upon basic reading skills. While Set 1 typically includes single-action commands like 'hop' or 'clap,' Set 2 progresses to phrases like 'walk to the door and knock' or 'pick up the pencil and draw a circle,' requiring children to process multiple instructions and execute them in sequence.
The set typically includes 20-24 command cards, each printed on durable white cardstock with clear black text. The cards are sized appropriately for small hands to hold independently and are designed to withstand repeated classroom use while maintaining their crisp, readable appearance.
Children should be comfortable reading simple three to four-letter phonetic words and basic sight words before progressing to Set 2. Most children are ready for these cards after mastering Set 1 or similar beginning reading materials, typically around ages 4-6, though readiness varies based on individual development and prior reading experience.
Store the cards in a small basket or box on the language shelf at child height. Introduce by demonstrating how to read a card silently, then perform the action. Children can work individually or in pairs, taking turns reading and executing commands. The cards can also be used for group activities where one child reads while others perform the action.
Children strengthen reading comprehension, sequential thinking, and the ability to follow multi-step directions. The cards develop executive function skills through planning and executing actions, enhance vocabulary related to movement and spatial concepts, and build confidence in independent reading while providing immediate feedback through successful completion of commands.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Contact Our Experts
Share your experience with this material and help other educators and parents.
