However, I try to add different materials - just to stimulate more thinking and encourage kids to expand their ideas. Of course, recycled materials make great construction materials. This time, we added cardboard pieces (from boxes) and cardboard tubes.
As is my practice, I put out the items with little direction beyond: "You can use these with the blocks if you choose."
We tried various arrangements of cardboard, blocks, and tubes.
We created structures and playgrounds.
And we even incorporated other items into our structures.
These materials are great for the classroom. You can use whatever you have on hand. If you have large pieces of cardboard or long tubes, cut them smaller or shorter. If they get torn or damaged, just toss them. (Or better yet, find a way to use them in sculptures or murals in the art center!)
