The Power of Block Play

Presented by Keith L. Pentz, National ECE Specialist, Kaplan Early Learning Company
Sponsored by Kaplan Early Learning

Watch the Recording

If you view the recording and would like a CE certificate, join the Classroom Management for Early Learning  community and go to the CE Quizzes link in the Community Toolbox.

Block play is more than just about stacking and randomly putting shapes together. The block area can be used to teach math, literacy, science, art, social skills, and more. The tactile nature of blocks encourages neural firing in the brain. The visual-spatial aspect of blocks is a wonderful way to support learning the alphabet and eventually reading. The physical involvement when working with blocks promotes motor skills. The socialization around block play promotes language and vocabulary development. Blocks are more than just a center—they are a foundational cornerstone for engaged learning.

In this edWebinar, Keith L. Pentz, National ECE Specialist at Kaplan Early Learning Company, shares how to:

• Describe how different areas of the brain are impacted when playing with blocks
• Understand how blocks can be used to teach and instruct in numerous content areas
• Explain the importance of manipulatives in learning
• Identify six characteristics of play
• Analyze block structures to determine the relationship to a child’s development

Pre-K educators will benefit from watching this recorded session. Learn more about the benefits of block play for your Pre-K learners.

About the Presenter

Keith L. Pentz, National Early Childhood Specialist for Kaplan Early Learning Company, has been in the field of education for more than 35 years. Keith began his career by working in childcare with infants and toddlers. Later, he taught elementary students as well as kindergarten. Keith spent the remainder of his classroom time teaching pre-kindergarten and working specifically with low socio-economic and diverse families as well as inclusion students. Following his experiences in the classroom, Keith moved on to teach at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, and he also was an assistant professor of early childhood education at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts.

Join the Classroom Management for Early Learning community to network with educators, participate in online discussions, receive invitations to upcoming edWebinars, view past edWebinars, take a quiz to receive a CE certificate for a past edWebinar, and access free resources.

 Kaplan Early Learning Company is a leading international provider of products and services that enhance children’s learning.