The Importance of Block Play for Children

The importance of Block Play!

We often tell families about the importance and outcomes of play. However have you ever seriously considered and reflected on children’s play and the opportunities you provide to achieve these outcomes.

Let’s look at block play… a part of the room that is often not used well and do we reflect on the resources, space and  possibilities for children… or do we think more about the child  and their behaviour?

Enabling a child to plan, design and construct with 3D materials has many benefits. Block construction encourages children to engage in symbolization and representation, make comparisons, classify, learn about directionality and sequencing and experience divergent thinking and logical reasoning. It provides opportunities for learning about mathematical concepts of size, shape, space and weight, along with developing imagination and creativity.

However, these skills will only develop when block play areas are large, equipped with various shaped wooden blocks, along with other resources and materials such as pipes, tubing, material, smaller blocks and the choice of using animals, people or transport within their constructions.  This allows children to plan and design, to imagine and create, to challenge their thinking further.   A well-resourced construction area will also encourage language, social engagement, cooperation and problem-solving, encouraging Children to work together towards a common goal.

Take a look at your block construction area and ask yourself the following;

1. Are the blocks arranged on shelves orderly and attractively?
2. Are sufficient accessories and props available to enrich the   block play?
3. Are large periods of time available for involvement in play?
4. Do children have access to a camera to record their constructions?
5. Are children encouraged to express their thoughts and knowledge through block construction?
6. Are referenced materials (books / pictures) used to extend children’s thinking and work?