Why tubes and containers are so essential to your baby

Your baby is beginning to understand that things fall out of a tube and stay put in a container, a concept they’ll be increasingly interested in well after they turn one.
A research study proved that babies who played with tubes, as well as containers, had a more advanced understanding of when something will stay inside of something else. In the study, 14-month-old babies were given a chance to explore the difference between blocks being dropped into a tube (the blocks fall out) and blocks dropped into a closed can (the blocks stay in). The 14-month-olds who were given tubes had the same understanding of containment as 21-month-olds who were given only containers.
Here are some fun ways to play with a clear tube:
- Tape the Clear Tube to the wall and have your baby reach while sitting (or stand with support) and drop the ball through the tube into the Treasure Basket below.
- Show your baby how a ball goes into and then falls out of the tube. Have them pick up the ball and do it again.
- Tilt the tube on a pillow and have your baby put the ball into it. Your baby will see it roll down the incline, like a slide, and fall out.
- The tube and floating ball are fun in the bathtub, too!

In this post

The Explorer Play Kit
The Explorer Play Kit engages your 9-10 month old baby’s senses as they explore object permanence, shape changing, feelings, and basic concepts which help build their coordination and concentration.
Learn more
The Thinker Play Kit
The Thinker Play Kit encourages your 11 – 12 month old baby’s curiosity as they start solving problems, working on hand strength and investigating everything in their path.
Learn moreKeep reading

0 - 12 Weeks
11 - 12 Months
13 - 15 Months
16 - 18 Months
19 - 21 Months
22 - 24 Months
25 - 27 Months
28 - 30 Months
3 - 4 Months
31 - 33 Months
34 - 36 Months
5 - 6 Months
7 - 8 Months
9 - 10 Months
Why wooden toys make the best playthings
Wooden toys are a staple of Montessori learning. They're durable, beautiful, and inspire wonder for a child's budding imagination.

9 - 10 Months
Your baby’s amazing encyclopedic brain
The most meaningful learning happens when your baby is exposed to everyday objects and events. Here are some ways to help your baby build their intelligence.

9 - 10 Months
Why you can actually have too many blocks
Blocks unlock powerful learning for babies, but child development experts recommend limiting the number of blocks you give yours. Learn why in our post.