It can be hard to find kids’ toys that provide both guided and open-ended play options. For those on the younger side who may need some visual cues or instructions, guided activities are helpful. For older children that may want to create on their own, allowing their imaginations to run free, open-ended play is optimal. This toy has got you covered and is a current favorite in our house!
The Fat Brain Toy’s tub of pattern blocks called GeoMagic Mosaics have been a great way to keep our kids engaged and entertained, especially with the frigidly, cold Chicago winter we’ve had!
If I’m being honest, my initial reaction upon opening this was, “Great…another toy with a million pieces that will be left all over the place (legos are enough)”. BUT, to my surprise, each color comes with its own bag, for easy storing. The fact there are so many pieces offered in each color is actually great because making new creations never gets old! My son has a field day with these and loves conjuring up new designs!
For beginners and younger kids, a guide book comes with more than 10 designs to make. My 5 year old created each one, which helped with focus, fine motor skills, and visual/spatial awareness!
Once he finished a certain design, he would then try to rearrange or add on to make it “his own”, putting unique touches to it!
While I am cleaning up from breakfast, folding a basket of laundry, or sitting alongside creating with him, he is able to do this activity independently and confidently!
I love to see his face light up with feelings of pride and accomplishment once he completes a design! Meanwhile, my 3 year old daughter can work on counting, patterning with colors and shape sorting! There are a variety of ways to use this awesome tub of pattern blocks for all ages!
These toys can initiate and foster great conversation about many educational topics from literacy to math to science! Just the other day we read a book about space, made this rocket and a replica of Mars. Because the Mars Rover was making its noteworthy landing back on Earth, we felt led to talk all about NASA, space, and other scientific topics.
Another thought that came to mind when we first opened this toy was, “What happens once they put together all the designs in the guidebook….will they be bored now?” Not at all. The opposite happened. Each design created a spark, an invitation for open-ended play. My son decided to add on to the “rocket” and make it his own. He loves using the blocks to make his own special creations, logical or abstract!
This toy has endless options to create and use your imagination! If you’re reading a book about nature, have them use these tiles to form a flower, caterpillar, butterfly, tree, etc.! If you’re learning about architecture, older children may want to challenge themselves by constructing their own structure, building, skyscraper, etc.
I mean it when I say both children and adults can participate and join in on the fun! An awesome way to make memories with family is to build together and that’s exactly what grandpa was able to do with my son! My dad and little guy worked hard to recreate the design on the front of the tub! It was a wonderful way for them to connect!
With 3 kids (ages 7 and under) in our house, and being a former teacher, I’m always looking for toys and activities that will sustain their attention, promote creative thinking, and offer open-ended play opportunities! This sure is a big hit in our house and I hope you love them, too!
See below for more kids toys/games/activities!
I sure hope you’ll come back for more kid related fun! In the meantime, stay curious and keep on creating!
