As children play, they gain knowledge of how the world works and they find their place I the world. Construction experiences, like playing with blocks, strengthen the foundation of math, science, reading, and writing. Children also develop physical coordination, build self-esteem, and learn how to work with others.
There is no substitute for a good set of unit blocks. Many types of blocks are available, but the most versatile and durable for preschool and school age children are unit blocks. Unit blocks (and their big brother: hollow blocks) represent a financial investment for many programs. Although blocks seem expensive initially they should last for many years and in the long run actually cost only pennies a day.
Materials Examples
Unit Blocks Wooden
Large Hollow Blocks Wooden
Cardboard Bricks, Boxes (large & small), tubes, flat pieces
Homemade Blocks Clean, empty food boxes
Building Surface Clear floor space and/or a low platform
Small Vehicles Cars, Trucks, Trains, Planes
Animals Small vinyl & wooden (domestic, farm, forest, ocean, & zoo animals)
People Small vinyl people of different race, culture, ability, & occupation
Other Accessories Road signs, Trees, Fences, Ruler, Tape measure, Protractor, a Leval
Loose Parts Empty thread spools, clothespins, craft sticks, paper cups, chenille stems, buttons, smooth wood scraps, PVC pipe, soda straws, twigs, wheels, baskets, buckets, small balls, maps