Today, it’s not uncommon for students to be drawn towards learning with the help of computers and gadgets. These tools offer convenience and accessibility, particularly when it comes to subjects like math and reading. Undoubtedly, virtual learning games have their own set of advantages and can greatly benefit learners.
The material world is still valuable, however, in learning 3-D thinking or spatial thinking is best in developing and enhancing roots of higher-level learning in children, especially the very young ones. Playing with letter blocks helps a lot in developing language for 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 years old children. Blocks are very helpful in developing hand coordination and motor skills as well. Research also shows that those who learned with blocks have better advantage in learning higher skills in college.
Playing with children using tangible objects not only provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and children, or teachers and students, to bond, but it also encourages more interaction and meaningful communication between them.
In today’s digital age, where screens dominate our lives, engaging in hands-on play with children becomes even more essential. By incorporating tangible objects and play materials, we can create a sensory-rich environment that stimulates multiple senses and enhances the learning experience.
The beauty of playing with tangible objects is that it goes beyond mere entertainment. The time spent participating in these activities creates room for more communication, allowing children to ask questions, seek answers, share their thoughts and ideas, or simply connect on a deeper level with their peers or loved ones. It fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens relationships.
Moreover, playing with tangible objects serves as a catalyst for imagination and creativity. It sparks curiosity and encourages children to explore, experiment, and discover new possibilities. As they manipulate and interact with physical objects, they develop cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and spatial awareness.
The hands-on nature of playing with tangible objects also helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Building with blocks, molding clay, or assembling puzzles requires precision and control, which contributes to the physical and cognitive development of children.
Furthermore, engaging in these activities facilitates learning in a fun and enjoyable way. It brings abstract concepts to life, making them tangible and easier to grasp. Children can explore mathematical principles through counting, sorting, and building, or dive into scientific concepts by conducting hands-on experiments and observations.
Playing with children using tangible objects is a multifaceted experience that encompasses emotional, cognitive, physical, and social aspects. It not only strengthens the bond between parents and children or teachers and students, but also nurtures the essential skills and qualities needed for holistic development. So, let’s embrace the power of hands-on play and create lasting memories together!
Teachers can actually balance high tech and low-tech learning and benefit from them both at the same time. Here are some simple ways to do that:
1. Do not worry that students might miss out when no latest gadgets are available for learning. No need to stress out. Be creative and involve your students in crafting materials that can be used for learning. You will both see in the end that this can even be a groundwork for success later in higher learning and in life later on.
2. Active participation. Make free play as interesting as a favorite app. For parents, joining the fun is more valuable than any gadget and apps combined. When adults and children play together, key cognitive concepts are developed and maximized.
3. Enrich the learning environment with interesting objects. Especially for young learners, simple things like wooden blocks, plastic cups and bowls, and puzzles are all good. Toys that make noises and beeps are all winners as well. These low-tech gadgets allows development of early cognitive abilities which are vital for proficiency in language and reasoning. Their memory and object permanence are also developed.
4. Encourage understanding the work of play. Free-form play is magical in a sense that little minds come to work when they develop essential mental skills like pushing a box around and climbing in and out of it. These skills will lead to academic excellence later on.
5. Let students be free during free play. You do not have to be there every second. Allow room for cultivating interests and curiosity as long as safety is observed.
You see, spatial thinking can maximize every learner’s potential and if these are not developed properly at the right time, this might cause him/her to miss out on important things which he/she needs in life later on.
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References:
Ang, S. Y.; Lee, K. (2008). “Central executive involvement in children’s spatial memory”. Retrieved on May 3, 2013.
Fisk, J. E.; Sharp, C. A. et al. (2003). “The role of the executive system in visuo-spatial memory functioning”. Brain and Cognition.
Mammarella, I. C.; Pazzaglia, F.; Cornoldi, C. et al. (2008). “Evidence for different components in children’s visuospatial working memory”. British Journal of Developmental Psychology 26 (3): 337–355. Retrieved on May 5, 21013.
