Building and Constructing
To develop spatial awareness and shape understanding through construction play.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Mathematics
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Builds simple structures
- Uses positional language
- Selects shapes purposefully
- Creates with increasing complexity
Materials
- Wooden blocks
- Construction kits
- Building challenge cards
- Small world for construction
Instructions
Invest in good quality unit blocks—they're worth it. Wooden blocks with consistent proportions allow children to discover mathematical relationships naturally (two squares placed end to end equal one rectangle). Include varied shapes: cubes, cuboids, cylinders, arches, triangular prisms.
Allow free exploration without directing what children should build. A two-year-old's 'tower' might not look like much to an adult, but it represents significant learning about balance, stability and spatial relationships.
Build your own structure nearby, without taking over children's space or their play. Narrate your thinking aloud: 'I need a flat one for the roof... this cylinder keeps rolling—maybe I need a cube instead...' This models the language of construction.
Use positional language naturally and frequently: 'You put the square on TOP of the rectangle. And the arch is NEXT TO the tower.' Point as you speak. This develops vocabulary for describing position and spatial relationships.
Name shapes in context as children select blocks: 'You've picked the cylinder—the round one. Good for rolling!' 'The cube is tricky to balance—it has corners.' Use mathematical vocabulary naturally rather than quizzing.
When buildings fall, resist the urge to simply rebuild. Instead, problem-solve together: 'It fell down! What happened? Maybe the bottom needs to be wider? Let's try with bigger blocks underneath.' Support thinking rather than solving for them.
Photograph children's constructions before they're knocked down or tidied away. Display photos with captions: 'Amir built a garage with three sides and a roof.' This values their work and creates opportunities for discussion.
For children ready for more challenge, create simple challenge cards: 'Can you build something taller than you?' 'Build a bridge that a car can go under.' 'Make a house for the dinosaur.' These promote purposeful, goal-directed building.