I wanted to write a post about our large outdoor blocks - another wonderful investment from Community Playthings, and as I explained in a previous post one of the best investments we ever made. I take loads of photos every year - it is the main way of showing evidence of learning with this age group. As I looked back over 4 years of photos looking for outdoor block play I began to notice something - how our outdoor area has developed over the past 4 years. Initially the space looks pristine, the blocks are so clean, the ground is looking so new, the space is very open, but as time moves on things begin to look more 'lived in'.
We have added more structures - seats, logs, 3 willow houses, a large sand pit and an outdoor house corner. As the place looks shabbier and shabbier I like to think that it is also a busier, more productive learning space.
I have learned to allow the children to move the blocks (and other equipment) around the space, we have become less precious about things having a set place - we do, however still treat the blocks with respect. I wonder if anyone else can see the changes that have occurred in our playground in the last 4 years?
Those are wonderful blocks - and I think that building outside (and with larger blocks) gives a different type of experience. It looks like your space has been well loved. :)
ReplyDeleteCheers Scott - you're right, building outside on a larger scale offers different opportunities. Thanks for dropping by...
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I saw those big blocks and their fab situation outside I knew you must be a British based teacher/ blogger! Woop, so great to find another one- we are few and far between! And welcome to the preschool FB network too. I look forward to reading more!
ReplyDeleteThese are awesome blocks, and your play space does look much loved, Kierna.
ReplyDeleteIt's good to see kids using the blocks for whatever their little hearts want them to be - a see saw; a musical instrument; a bridge; a bed...your outdoor space looks vibrant, busy and happy!
Brenda
Fantastic! We just bought the same blocks from CPT and we LOVE them! We also use them outdoors and have seen the most amazing structures being built from them. We are adding cars and trucks to the area next week. I didn't think to use logs or crates...thanks for the idea!
ReplyDeleteHi again Kristin - I think the CPT blocks are one of the best investments any school can make.
ReplyDeleteI too like the hollow blocks, but they are a bit pricey and am not sure how they hold up without cover... I added leftover 2*4 and 2*6 chunks from construction. The children helped me sand them, no splinters, this was an easy and cheap way to add blocks to our outdoor space. (don't use treated lumber - it has chemicals)
ReplyDeleteHi, yes they are pricey, I see a lot of companies offering cheaper versions but don't know how they would hold up in the long term. I don't leave them out uncovered - I'm lucky to have a covered verandah area that I can wheel them into (They come in cart with wheels).Thanks for dropping by.
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