Building Block Sets that will Enhance your Child's Imagination!
If you let them, kiddies will make piles out of anything they can get their hands on:couch pillows, books, toys and even canned goods. There's just something about stacking one thing on-top-of another that excites children. Why not encourage creative building in a constructive way by getting your child a set of building blocks.
Building Sets for Younger and Older Children
There are many types of building block sets to choose from and lots of great ways to bond with your child through building activities. Consider your child's age and coordination level before picking a set. For a younger child, you might choose a basic block set. Older children love the more detailed sets that allow them to build even bigger structures with pieces that fit together, stack, or snap in place.
Creative play doesn't get better than a child building a huge structure that he first pictured in his mind. Your little architect will amaze you with every original design he builds. Add new building sets to the playroom each year to keep your child's creativity blooming.
Building Set Suggestions for Younger and Older Children
Building sets for a Novice "Younger" Architect
The following building sets will spark your child's imagination while enhancing important developmental skills. These blocks will also help teach your child about letters and colors and you can use them to build words, as well as, structures.
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Vintage ABC Blocks in a Tray by Melissa & Doug |
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Wee Blossom Octagon Creative Blocks |
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Montgomery School ABC Blocks by Maple Landmark |
Building sets for the more Experienced "Older" Architect
The following building sets will spark your older child's imagination and allow him or her to create amazing structures over and over again. The creative possibilities are endless! Building sets will keep your child occupied for hours and help to develop important skills. Better yet, your child will have lots of fun too!
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GuideCraft Locking Ladders 75 Piece Set |
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GuideCraft Deluxe Rainbow Block Set - Type Paragraph |
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Montgomery School 104-pc Master Builder Block Set by Maple Landmark - Type Paragraph |
Bonding through Building; Three Fun Activities
Your little builder is sure to appreciate some help with his building activities. Why not spice it up by introducing some fun twists to the building process. Below are three activities that allow you to be part of the architectural experience in an enjoyable and unique way.
You Go,I Go
Try to build the tallest building of blocks in the world! Do this by taking turns. Your little builder goes first then you put a block on-top-of his. He goes then you go. Continue until the building falls down. See how much taller you can get the stack of blocks each time. Count how many blocks are on the stack so you know your goal to beat. Strive to build a bigger and better stack. This is a great bonding game where you work together towards one "big" goal.
Blueprints of Fun
Take turns drawing some architectural plans on paper, chalkboard or dry erase board. Draw a simple structure pattern and then have your young builder recreate the pattern using blocks. Let your youngster draw a picture for you to build. Keep them simple at first and create more challenging patterns as your child develops his architectural talents.
Knock-em Down
Build two tall structures then try to knock them over. Huff and puff and blow it all down. See who can do it from the farthest away. Then try throwing small pillows or balls at the structures to knock them to the ground. Use your imagination. Make up fun competitions and encourage your youngster to create some entertaining knock-em down challenges.
Building Your Child's Motor Skills
Building block sets don't only keep your child entertained for hours, they also help to develop your youngster's motor skills. These skills are the basis for doing common activities such as writing, drawing, tying shoes and putting on clothes. With blocks or a building set your child won't only be building architectural foundations, he'll also be building the foundation for lifelong skills.
