31 days of unplugged play: stacking and building

Written by Kara Fleck, Simple Kids editor and Rockin’ Granola mama.

Today’s unplugged play idea is stacking.

This is an activity that can be adapted to all ages:  babies love to knock things down or older kids might appreciate the challenge of building a card house.  There is a wide range of appeal and ability for this play idea.

Supplies and materials

Things to that you can stack:

• blocks
• plastic cups
• playing cards
• dominos
• flat, smooth stones
• shoeboxes

Today we’re going to be stacking and building.  How high can your child build?

Set the scene for building and stacking fun by finding a smooth, stable surface for this unplugged play idea (and perhaps opt for baby’s nap time or provide a place out of reach of baby’s hands for an older sibling who might be bothered by baby’s natural curiosity and desire to knock stacks down).

Play, Learn, Explore

• How high can you build?
• Can you mix building supplies?  Will a base of cards hold a wooden block?
• Does the width of your base affect how high you can build?
• Will baby or toddler imitate you?  If you stack up three blocks, will she?

Remember, don’t be tempted to guide this activity too heavily: set the scene and see where your children take it.

Just joining us? Find 31 Days of Unplugged Play here.