Overview | Language Arts | Math | Social Studies | Science | Art | Blocks

In the ECC children use two types of blocks. Large wooden hollow blocks provide gross motor development and small wooden unit blocks provide small motor development. Both types of blocks offer opportunities for growth in every area of a child’s growth.

The most obvious areas of growth for a child when working with blocks are hand/eye coordination and dramatic play.

But block play also presents opportunities in mathematical and scientific thinking, as well as practice with social skills, language development and artistic expression. Children actively problem solve when working with blocks.

Children are not told specifically what to build, but rather are guided by teachers with open-ended questions that present challenges. For example, if a child has built a barn for farm animals but has omitted a door, a question such as, “How will the farmer get in the barn to care for the animals?” might be presented. A more controlled block building time might suggest to the children that a window must be included in the structure.
Blocks are also used as an extension of the social studies curriculum. For example, after visiting a grocery store, children are expected to re-create the experience in the block area. Accessories such as plasticine, craft sticks, wooden people, wooden vehicles, and carpet squares provide further stimulation for imaginative play.

Blocks allow for every type of learner to explore his/her talent. The Architects tell you in expressive language what they are doing and give directions, but may not execute the ideas. The Builders are capable of creating extraordinary structures, the Artists are most interested in the accessories to “finish” the structure and the Dramatic Players can create context for what is going on inside and around the building. We strive to create positive experiences for all children with successful partnering of these specific strengths.