Selecting and introducing blocks to young children is an important way to support their mathematical reasoning, scientific investigation, and problem-solving skills. A good set of blocks should be considered an investment. Although blocks are expensive, they are durable and can last a lifetime with very low maintenance. If you don't have the money for new blocks, you may want to consider purchasing different kinds of blocks and sharing them between classrooms.
Child care providers can do several things to make blocks more interesting for children. Blocks are made of all different shapes, sizes, colors, textures, materials, etc. If the children are bored with the ones you already have, adding some new and different ones to your collection may expand play possibilities. Adding props to blocks is another great (and inexpensive) way to renew children’s interest in the block area and can help spark an idea in children of what they can build. Some possible additions include:
- Cars and trucks
- Construction toys including hard hats, building plans, and orange safety vests
- Street signs
- Books on buildings and construction
- Small people and animals
- Props that support a specific theme, such as a zoo or store.
For more information about choosing toys for young children, check out the eXtension Alliance for Better Child Care section on Toys and Materials in Child Care.
