Blocks are still one of the most popular traditional toys available today. Their simple design and flexible usage attract children of all ages, especially preschoolers. Children build and construct all sorts of things they experience in everyday life with blocks, opening all sorts of meaningful opportunities for learning important school readiness and life skills.

Most traditional toys, like blocks, were originally made of wood. Today, wooden blocks are still available, but there are several other styles of blocks to choose from. Chunky plastic blocks or squishy fabric blocks are great toddler toys because they are safe and durable for little hands and mouths. Wooden blocks are favorites of preschoolers, as well as large cardboard blocks and plastic blocks that snap together. Older children can now continue to enjoy the thrill of playing with these traditional toys with modern block construction sets designed for kids of various ages.

One of the most obvious learning benefits of playing with blocks is in language development. Most children talk as they build and experiment with these traditional toys. Many preschoolers incorporate blocks into their pretend play, using them to build and represent a variety of props, from play telephones to roadways. Playing pretend is one of the most language rich activities a child participates in.

Dramatic play with traditional toys like blocks enhances important language skills, including essential reading and writing skills like event sequencing. This type of play also develops social skills a child needs throughout life. As preschoolers begin to join in group play settings, they learn to take turns, to share, and to resolve conflicts with others.

Children who play with blocks together have the opportunity to develop even more social skills. Attempting to reach a goal as a group while building with these traditional toys encourages children to work together as a team and can also enhance leadership skills. Block play supports creative expression and allows children to develop constructive ways to voice their opinions.

Social, emotional, and language development are not the only benefits of playing with blocks. These traditional toys also encourage the development of skills in both math and science. Blocks are one of the best toys that allow young children to experience and work through the steps of scientific discovery first hand. Through experimentation, observation, and more testing, children learn the effects of gravity on an object, as well as things like balance and structure.

Traditional toy blocks come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. These types of blocks are great for exploring geometry and encourage children to develop sorting skills. Children can experiment with building with an assortment of shapes, developing essential problem solving skills as they learn that flat, square or rectangular blocks make better bases for their structures while cylindrical shaped blocks work well for walls or columns.

With all the educational and learning benefits offered through block play, it is no wonder these traditional toys have remained long time favorites. Blocks allow children to learn spontaneously through their play time. While structured and planned block play will ensure educational development, a child's natural exploration during play provides the same benefits with many traditional toys, especially blocks.