I am of the opinion that unit blocks (as a minimum) should be available to the children everyday, all day. They should just be part of everyday play.
Many children, I have noticed, don't know what to do with blocks at first. But as they are invited with interesting provocations they learn to be curious.
I watched this little girl, start her tower or stacking with a wedge piece. Over and over again. And it would fall down over and over again. Look at her structure this time. Interesting. She still started with a wedge piece but learned how to balance the blocks so they didn't fall. Resilience. Perseverance.
Using all of the blocks available.
See the pattern?
Using tiles to make a wall.
Then they got the idea to make a tunnel.
PVC ramp, cars, tin cans, tiles and blocks
Because we have loose parts in the room, children can bring things from other areas.
She made a beautiful bed for her puppy and bunny.
These photos are just a sampling. Something amazing is created everyday.
"For engaging children's hands, minds and imaginations, no tool surpasses blocks. Engrossed in building with blocks the child is a mathematician, scientist, architect, stage designer and story-teller. And as children build together, they stretch and grow as problem solvers and collaborators. "
The Block Book, by Elizabeth Hirsch
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