It is well known the benefits block play brings to our early childhood programs, from encouraging mathematical skills, critical thinking, creativity, and even literacy! Blocks offer so many opportunities for open-ended play and are central in most every learning center. Recently it seems the classic unit blocks specifically are getting all the love, from not only school settings but home settings as well. We could not be more excited!

Research shows that developing strong early childhood literacy skills actually impact a child’s ability to succeed academically, graduate on time, and even enhance overall productivity as an adult. It makes sense, right?

Manipulatives come in so many different shapes and sizes and offer up a fantastic range of learning opportunities for early childhood development. Maria Cantillana shares her experience with one of our favorite sets, the Geo Block Build! Her kids amazed us all as they used a typical manipulative set to not only work through some fundamental skills, but instinctively engaged in open-ended play-based creativity and fun!