Building Play

This week we will be talking about one of the oldest activities children have used to entertain themselves; playing with blocks. Recently with the progression of technology and use of tablets this activity has become over looked. It is such a simple way to pass time, but it is very beneficial to propel your child’s learning experiences. They learn and strengthen many different skills. Counting blocks, strengthens math skills, while learning concepts like balance and gravity. Hand-eye coordination and multiple muscle movements are also being introduced, as they lift multiple blocks at once or lift blocks that are a little heavy. While they build they are learning ways to represent their ideas and imagination. New language is being used to describe their castle, moat or sky scraper. So many things are happening all while having fun!

http://theenchantedtree.blogspot.com/2011/04/natural-play-space.html

Block Play can really be done anywhere as long as you have space and blocks. The most beneficial block play or building play is done outside with natural elements to create endless challenges. Instead of using the basic plastic blocks that leave little to the imagination, try wooden blocks cut from small logs or branches. Nature blocks add the sensory of texture and are shaped by Mother Nature herself, which adds to the challenge of stacking. Using nature blocks instead of plastic or foam blocks helps ignite creativity. Many studies indicate that indirect contact with nature helps the flow of imagination which opens the door for self-taught lessons that I referenced earlier. While you’re outside building with the blocks try adding in more natural elements like rocks, pine cones and other sticks. The ideas, challenges and learned experiences are endless!

As your child grows older or if you have older children, building forts can be an age appropriate twist on the basic concepts of block building. Large sticks, logs and foliage are great natural material to build the perfect hide out. Using the same concepts of building, they exercise the movements of muscles and coordination while expressing their ideas. Team work is introduced with larger projects of fort building by working together to lift and balance heavier logs.

Whether you have young children or young adults there is something for everyone when it comes to building. With so many things to learn and adventures to have, why wait, get outside and build your own creation!

https://loveoutdoorplay.net/2012/03/30/what-can-you-do-to-love-outdoor-play-this-easter/