ERIC Number: EJ1450174
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 6
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0009-4056
EISSN: EISSN-2162-0725
Available Date: N/A
Where Are the Blocks? A Case for Blocks in Primary and Elementary Classrooms
Eugene Geist; D'wana Webb
Childhood Education, v100 n6 p44-49 2024
The standby wooden blocks that are prevalent in most high-quality early childhood classrooms are missing from most primary and elementary grades. The goal for block play in early childhood is to support learning in mathematics, science, art, literacy and language arts, physical development, social studies, and social and emotional growth. This goal doesn't end after kindergarten. In this article the following questions are addressed: Why does block play in the classroom end? Why do primary grade classrooms not include blocks and block play? Block play is an essential activity in elementary education that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, imagination, spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, and social skills. Overcoming the challenges to inclusion of block play beyond kindergarten requires a concerted effort to educate about its benefits, creatively integrate blocks into the curriculum, and address practical constraints. By recognizing block play as a powerful learning tool, educators can enrich the primary education experience, fostering skills and competencies that extend well beyond the classroom.
Descriptors: Elementary Schools, Classroom Environment, Instructional Materials, Manipulative Materials, Play, Educational Needs, Elementary Education, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Creativity, Imagination, Spatial Ability, Perceptual Motor Coordination, Interpersonal Competence, Barriers
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A