Your web browser might not work well with our site. We recommend you upgrade your browser.
/classroom/7953518 Customize URL
In my humble opinion, a set of wooden unit building blocks are essential in an early childhood classroom. They are not just for play, much learning, self expression, and building self-esteem are all impacted with a set of blocks. Because I am an added section, and materials are very limited, I am purchasing many materials myself, through garage sales and an online marketplace. On my wish list, however, is something I cannot find used, nor truly afford new, and that is a set of wooden unit blocks. Block play requires both small and large motor skills, problem solving, social emotional skills, imagination, math, science, and so much more! Students will stack, slide and jump over their creations, learn spatial awareness, and develop hand eye coordination and strength in their hands using blocks. They will learn to share, cooperate, take turns, and self advocate, skills which are difficult for young children. By following a plan, or making a structure as they go, there is no limit to students' imaginations when building with blocks! From towers and castles to birthday cakes, zoos, bridges, fences, and vehicles, blocks cover them all! Students count, recognize patterns and measure using blocks; they test hypotheses, learn about gravity, balance, and weight. Self-expression and self-esteem are also impacted as students realize that their ideas are brought to life through creating, fixing, and re-creating. In my classroom, I believe the blocks will be used daily through free choice play, STEM lessons, vocabulary, and anything else that may come up. My students will truly benefit from a classroom set of wooden unit blocks, and grow in all areas of development with their use. The best for me is that I get to observe my students reap all the benefits they receive through block "play".
Read more