Blocks

hen children play with blocks they learn about sizes and shapes, spatial

relationships, math concepts, and

problem solving. When children lift, stack, and

move blocks, they learn about weight and size. Each time they use

blocks, they

are making decisions about how to build a structure or solve a construction

problem. As children

experience the world around them, they form mental

pictures of what they see. Playing with blocks gives them an

opportunity to

recreate these pictures in concrete form. The ability to create these

representations of their

experiences is an important skill necessary for

abstract thinking. Blocks are also valuable play materials for

physical

development. For example, children use their large muscles to carry blocks from

place to place. As they

carefully place blocks together to form a bridge or an

intricate design, they refine the small muscles in their

hands, which are

important for writing tasks. The block corner is a place for children to play

together and share

experiences. As children build together, they solve problems

and learn the benefits of cooperatio