Pattern Blocks

My wonderful sister-in-law also gave us these wooden pattern blocks that her boys used when they were younger.  Also with them were pattern block design cards and a workbook (see below for more on the workbook and blocks used).

When I first brought them out C dived in as if he had been using them for years.  I had a page in the workbook open with a pattern and he proceeded to put tiles on it.  I couldn't believe I didn't have to show him or explain how this worked!  He's only two so I was quite impressed.  He even worked on larger patterns as shown below.

The design cards she gave us came with many patterns, some color coded, and others without color for varying levels of difficulty, as well as outlines of larger items that allow the child to choose how to fill it in- all on lightweight cardboard to stand up to greater use.

The workbook has several patterns that can be photocopied so that they can be used flat (instead of on the curve of the book lying open!).

My favorite part- besides not paying a cent for them, is that these items are all in great shape- even after being used for many years by four other boys!  I can see us getting a lot of mileage out of these!

More on the Workbook: Building Thinking Skills: Hands On Primary
-It's an older workbook, but looks great and provides a LOT of activities for varying levels
-It's geared for grades PreK-1
-Work with pattern blocks, interlocking snap cubes, and attribute blocks. (C LOVES the snap cubes and works with them like any other type of interlocking block.  They're great for counting and more as detailed in the workbook.)
-Great activities involving colors, numbers, shapes, reading, writing, math and science.

There are also great magnetic versions available if you don't want to make the larger investment or probably more appropriate (technically) for younger children.
Melissa & Doug make some great magnetic pattern blocks and regular pattern block sets too.