Stereognostic Sense

Sorting
Materials For each exercise, it is necessary to have a tray, identical containers for
each set of objects, and a larger container where the objects are mixed.
A blindfold.

Objects for Level 1:

Sets of familiar objects that fit in the child’s hand and can be
distinguished by feeling, such as sets of buttons, shells, nuts and bolts,
small pieces of sponge, etc. At first, have only two sets and only two
or three objects in each set. Gradually add more sets and more of each
object in the set.

Objects for Level 2:

Sets of medium size grains that are still visible as the child holds each
between thumb and index finger, such as beans, corn, and other seeds
of this size. Have three to five sets with five to ten objects in each set;
start with less and add more for greater challenge. Have only one
exercise at this level on the shelf at a time.

Objects for Level 3:

Small grains or seeds the size of small rice or wheat where the grain
disappears between the child’s thumb and index fingertip. There
should be 4 or 5 kinds and about 5 of each. One of these exercises is
put out at a time. It is sometimes called grain distinction.

Purposes Refinement of the Stereognostic Sense

Age 3.5 and up

Presentation 1. Begin by gathering the tray, identical containers for each set of
objects, and the larger container where the objects are mixed.
Also, have a blindfold ready for the child.
2. Invite the child to join you at a table for the sorting exercise.
3. Introduce Level 1 objects, such as sets of familiar objects that
can be distinguished by feeling, like buttons, shells, nuts and
bolts, or small pieces of sponge. Start with two sets, each
containing only two or three objects. Gradually increase the
number of sets and objects as the child progresses.
4. Show the child how to mix the objects in the larger container
and explain that their task is to sort the objects into their
respective containers.
5. Demonstrate how to pick up an object, feel it, and place it in the
correct container based on its characteristics.
6. Offer the child the blindfold, explaining that they can choose to
 Stereognostic Sense
Sorting

use it to enhance their sense of touch and focus on the tactile

experience.
7. Guide the child to complete the sorting activity for Level 1
objects, providing support and feedback as needed.
8. Once the child has mastered Level 1, introduce Level 2 objects.
These are medium-sized grains that can still be seen as the child
holds them between their thumb and index finger, such as beans
or corn. Have three to five sets with five to ten objects in each
set, gradually increasing the challenge.
9. Repeat the steps for Level 2, allowing the child to use the
blindfold if desired.
10. Finally, when the child is ready, introduce Level 3 objects,
which are small grains or seeds the size of small rice or wheat.
These grains should disappear between the child's thumb and
index fingertip. Provide 4 or 5 kinds with about 5 of each.
11. Guide the child through the sorting process for Level 3,
emphasizing the refined tactile discrimination required.
12. Allow the child to practice the sorting exercises independently,
offering guidance and encouragement when needed.
13. Once the child has completed the activity, demonstrate how to
clean up by returning the objects to their respective containers
and putting everything back on the tray.
14. Encourage the child to reflect on their work and discuss their
observations or feelings about the activity.

Control of Error Visual, all the items in each bowl are the same

Following 1. Invite the child to do Level 2 using a blindfold.

Exercises 2. Invite the child to do Level 3 using a blindfold.

Language None

Sensorial Games None

Pedagogical  The stereognostic sense combines all aspects of the tactile sense and
Notes includes movement around the object
 This work is best done on a table, not a rug