Not that you asked, but blocks are one toy I think all children should have. (Don't you love unsolicited opinions? I have boatloads of them!) But seriously, hear me out on this one.
I'm not someone who likes to spend extra money when I don't need to. (Is anyone really?) Why spend $10, when this $5 version is fine? But sometimes, you get what you pay for, for better or worse.
And this was illustrated for me perfectly last year around Christmas, when I won a giveaway and received a set of Back to Blocks wooden blocks. I had already purchased a set of colored wooden blocks - a cheap set, I admit (though I prefer "thrifty") - and the difference between the two was stunning. The Back to Blocks were better-made, you could tell just by holding them. The other blocks, which were even a good name brand, seemed flimsier to me.
But why blocks in the first place? I'm such a huge fan of open-ended toys, where kids can play with them in new ways every day. Kay does have some electronic toys, but there's only 1, or maybe two, ways to play with those. Push the button, the doggie barks. Yay. Blocks are one of those rare toys that are good for a variety of ages. They also promote:
- creativity and imagination
- problem solving
- basic math ("Hey, 2 triangles can make a square!")
- hand-eye coordination
- fine motor skills
- logic skills
- social and cooperation skills
So why go with homemade wooden blocks over store-bought ones that might just be a little cheaper? Three quick reasons:
- Quality. I've already mentioned how much better theseBack to Blocks are - totally able to take being stacked and kicked down multiple times! (Trust me - they've been put to the test!)
- No paint. No colors means no chemicals to potentially worry about...and no recalls either, for that matter. (Of course, you can always add your own splash of color if you wish!)
- Supporting small businesses is something I always feel good about.
Boy with blocks image by Eric Peacock
The great folks at Back to Blocks want to give you a chance to win a set, just in time for the holidays. Enter below and happy building!
I've teamed up with some great bloggers to bring you a Kids Holiday Wishlist! Get some ideas for your shopping this season and see what real moms have to say about the products. Which item will your kids *love*?