Poro rākau Blocks

Blocks | Poro Rākau

Block play enables children to explore ideas about math, science, technology, language and art, helping develop their thinking skills. It provides an opportunity for children to create and express ideas.

Learning and Development

Block play helps children explore science, technology and engineering concepts such as gravity, stability, weight, balance, symmetry, friction and force.
Early maths concepts such as measurement, counting, shapes and patterns are introduced through block play and lay the foundations for learning algebra.
Block play encourages critical thinking through trial and error, problem-solving and planning. Children learn to ask questions and put their ideas into practice.
Building with blocks supports the development of hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Centres provide complementary resources like wooden people, animals and cars, allowing children to expand their creativity by creating imagined scenes and stories.
Block play builds confidence, perseverance and teamwork. Teachers support children by engaging in conversations about their creations and helping them resolve challenges.

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How block play relates to the primary school curriculum

Continuing Learning at Home

For older infants and toddlers:
Use foam or fabric blocks with wooden or plastic animals and people. These materials are easy for small hands to manipulate, helping children develop control and decision-making skills.
DIY blocks:
Make your own blocks from different sized boxes. Fill them with paper for added strength and secure with tape. You can also try using papier-mâché to create sturdy, homemade blocks.
Colour sorting and sequencing:
Sets of coloured blocks are excellent for practising grouping, sorting and sequencing skills.
Add props – gather items such as cars, people and animals to extend block play and spark imaginative storytelling.
Use inspiration from real life:
Use pictures of buildings or structures to inspire your child’s creativity and encourage them to build their own versions.