Block play is an engaging activity that promotes a range of important skills in children's early development. The open-ended play plays a key role in igniting children's imagination as they have the freedom to explore, take apart, and put together any creation they can think of. However, the creative aspect is not the only benefit block play provides.
Here are some important skills gained by playing with building blocks at a young age.
1. Hand-eye coordination
As little ones play with the blocks to build houses, towers, or anything within their creative imagination, they lift, push, and pull blocks of all shapes and sizes. This exercise also helps to strengthen the muscles in their arms, hands, and fingers,
2. Perception of balance and depth
Children learn depth and balance perception by playing with blocks by placing, moving, and organizing the blocks into different patterns.
3. Self-expression
Playing with blocks gives children the ability to express themselves through their creations and discoveries — a valuable form of communication for bilingual or non-verbal children.
4. Communication and problem solving
When playing with blocks in pairs or groups, children are given the opportunity to discuss what to build, which colour to use, and so on. There may be instances when one child has different ideas too. This serves as an excellent way to promote communication and problem-solving skills.
5. Beginning of maths and science
Block play incorporates balance, estimation, and symmetry which helps to develop the left side of the brain with science and mathematics skills. Counting, comparing block sizes, naming shapes, and combining two shapes are some activities that help develop children's minds.
Here are some blocks that you can find on Babydash.
Baby Einstein Bridge & Learn Magnetic Activity Blocks
Mega Bloks Build N' Learn First Builders
Hape Toys Wonderful Beech Blocks
