1. Discovering blocks
— Exploring physical characteristics by carrying, pushing, feeling, tasting, holding, dropping
What’s he learning? Texture, weight
Tip: offer a variety of blocks and some containers
2. Stacking blocks
—Vertically, horizontally or in a line
What’s she learning? Cause and effect (Will the tower fall?)
Tip: try the same thing with smaller blocks
3. Complex stacking
—Making a 3-dimensional structure with no interior space
What’s she learning? How is this tower like a building?
Tip: try providing pattern cards
4. Building enclosures
—Enclosing space flat on the floor; sometimes naming the enclosure
What are they learning? To work together; language skills
Tip: offer toy people, farm animals, cars
5. Building bridges and arches
—Placing a block that spans the space between two supporting blocks or towers
What’s he learning? Balance, proportion
Tip: try showing pictures of famous bridges and arches, offer toy boats
Parenting ideas from Parents as Teachers.
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