Knowledge of the seven stages of block play gives practitioners a framework to understand children’s learning in this area, finds Nicole Weinstein – with ideas for products to buy
Exploring blocks outdoors at Childbase.
Exploring blocks outdoors at Childbase. - Alex Deverill at Childbase Hampstead Gate

Block play is a staple of early education. The open-ended nature of the basic wooden block is appealing to all age groups. Babies enjoy the sensory experience of holding the blocks and toddlers use schematic traits to transport them around the nursery. Older children build towers, bridges and enclosures, counting and comparing the blocks, measuring distances and using symmetry. Offering a range of solid and hollow blocks of different sizes will provide children with rich opportunities for block play.

SEVEN STAGES OF BLOCK PLAY

Children’s play with blocks changes over time. Harriet Merrill Johnson (1933) identified a series of developmental stages that all block players progress through. Rather than trying to build complex structures with them, when they are not developmentally ready, the seven stages of block play help practitioners to recognise when the child is ready to move on.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Deputy Manager

South Hornchurch

Co Nursery Manager

Clapham, London (Greater)

Nursery Practitioner

Hammersmith and Fulham, London (Greater)