Toy blocks have existed since the 1820s, but the concept predates their popularity.
You probably grew up with them, as did your parents and their parents before them. Blocks were perhaps one of your child’s early toys.
They’re colorful, easy to hold, and can be used for various activities.
When is a toy block not a toy block?
Whenever you want it to be.
Not Just a Toy
Try using blocks in ways you hadn’t previously considered.
Is your child struggling with a math concept?
Whether your child uses an online program, e.g., IXL, or printed worksheets, stepping away from traditional learning methods can provide a fresh, more relaxed experience.
Children can develop an approach-avoidance wall when they recognize that a concept isn’t coming to them quickly. Their anxiety inhibits their ability to process information. They freeze at the sight of the work.
Strip away the standard methods by engaging them with something new.
For Math Concepts
Let’s say money is their struggle. Rather than use actual coins – use blocks.
Make it a pretend game. The blocks are pretending to be coins.
Open by allowing them to choose which colors will be which coins. I usually start by asking, “What’s your favorite color?”
Let the child separate the “coins” by color. The toy blocks can be placed on the table/counter, or if the container has a wide opening, the child can remove them by hand.
This gives the child decision-making power and temporarily distracts from the end goal of returning to the math concept.
This engagement and downtime can calm nerves.
Let the child do the work – pick and assign colors and values. It should be as interactive and engaging as possible.
Once the choices and piles are made, you can begin with some exercises.
Ask for $0.57. Let them try mental math first. Remember, the point of this exercise is not to resemble what’s been done before, i.e., the conventional mode of learning.
Teachers employ a similar practice using manipulatives.
If you’re looking for more non-traditional methods to ease math anxiety, head to our “10 Ways to Overcome Math Anxiety” post.
You don’t have to start or stop with money. The blocks can represent anything you need them to, e.g., whole numbers to count by groups, units of measurement, or even parts of speech.
For Parts of Speech
For English Language Arts, once the toy blocks are separated into nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, ask the child to make a simple sentence with one of each. They can create more complex sentences as they build understanding and confidence.
This practice has worked well with many students I’ve tutored but not all.
Every child is different. What works for one may not work for another.
We wish you success and fun.
Leave a comment to let us know your experience.
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