They’re colorful, easy and inexpensive to make, float, light weight, and quiet when they crash–what’s not to love about Pool Noodle Blocks?
Supplies
- Pool Noodles
- Serrated Knife
- Ruler
- Marker
Make The Blocks
There are two ways to go about this.
If you don’t want blocks that are uniform in height, just grab a pool noodle and your serrated knife and (carefully!) slice away.
If you’d like more uniform blocks, mark them before you slice them. Just use a ruler and marker to make marks indicating where to cut before you slice away.
Get Some Help
Well supervised preschool age children are capable of cutting these blocks. Just spend a few moments orienting them on how to use the knife safely and pay close attention while they are cutting.
Play Away
Pool Noodle blocks play well on their own or with other blocks.
As I mentioned earlier, they also float–which adds an interesting variation to block play…
Something Not To Love
I have to admit, there is one thing some folks might not love about these blocks–some kids will pick at them. Pick and pick and pick and pick and pick and pick. This can get messy and annoy some adults.
If you’re one of these people, remember that the noodle block pickers are building small muscle strength and control as well as honing hand-eye coordination while they pick. So, if you don’t want them picking apart your blocks, try to find something else they can pick apart.
Did You Try It?
If you gave these blocks a try, I’d love to read about your experience in the comments section. Have pictures? Share them!
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Post Author
Jeff Johnson is an early learning trainer, podcaster, and author who founded Explorations Early Learning, Playvolution HQ, and Play Haven.
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