Think Think Think…With ThinkBlocks

We know that play is essential for the attainment of the aforementioned milestones and can assist in how a child manages stress and achieves resilience.  As a parent, I feel that toys should not only entertain but educate.  Play should move beyond the passive and actively engage a child.  

I was thrilled when I received ThinkBlocks by ThinkWorks. The premise behind ThinkWorks is that if you teach a child to think…he will thrive.  Your child will do both and more with this new and innovative product that is sure to top this years list of sold out toys.  

Children enjoy playing with blocks…stacking them, watching them tumble, arranging them.  ThinkWorks is taking it up a notch!  Teach your younger child the simple concept of the difference between big and small blocks and your older child the components of the ecosystem. 

  

To be honest, when we received ThinkBlocks I was a little intimidated.  I thought…if I can’t figure it out, how is a child supposed to?  Thankfully there is a guide and a wealth of information on their site for endless ways to use your ThinkBlocks.  If you can believe it, the age range is 4-94!  We can all use a little brain exercise now can’t we?  

Start simply…have your child stack them, spin them, explore them.  Children benefit the most from play when they use their imaginations.  You can then use the guide to help you get started with age-appropriate activities.  But don’t stop there.  Check out the section entitled Activity Tutorials for more ways to use your ThinkBlocks.  Encourage your child to reflect on concepts touched upon during play.  Take them with you and utilize them for “teaching moments.”  Bring them out when your child is struggling with a math concept.  

ThinkBlocks teaches four universal thinking skills:  distinctions, systems, relationships, and perspectives.  Your child will develop analytical, logical, and rational thinking; creative, holistic, and systemic thinking; emotional intelligence including self-reflection, compassion, and perspective; and a deeper understanding of school subject areas.  

The science behind this ingenious “toy” is compelling.   Your child’s brain is a sponge waiting to absorb the world.  ThinkWorks grasps the importance of capturing this brief window in a child’s life by incorporating the skills essential for thinking into ThinkBlocks.  

ThinkBlocks retails for $79.99 and can be purchased here.  If you’d like more information, their website has some phenomenal information including a guided tour of the product and expert talks.