Wooden nesting balls in orange, green and black. With beautiful designs, these nesting balls are visually attractive. Some cracking is evidence of use over the years.

The development of hand-eye coordination, including manual dexterity and the recognition of relative size, is an important stage in a child's growth. Simple nesting balls and the related nesting or babushka dolls provide the opportunity for this important play activity. Their smoothness gives a tactile experience.

The balls, of course, provide an additional play object; they can be gently rolled or tossed. As they are wooden rougher outdoor play would not be acceptable.

Daiken, Leslie. Children's toys throughout the ages, London: Spring Books, 1963 (1965 printing)

Fraser, Antonia. A history of toys, London: Weidenfeld & N., [1966]

Jaffe, Deborah. The history of toys: from spinning tops to robots, Stroud [England]: Sutton, 2006

Opie, Iona. The treasures of childhood: books, toys and games from the Opie collection, London: Pavilion, 1989

Hampshire Museum Services: Childhood collection. Brief history of toys

Victoria and Albert Museum: Museum of Childhood. Collections: Toys