To extend the children’s interest in stacking toys, Kerren set up a variety of materials for them to explore. These included large and small ring stackers, spiral stackers, mini pylons, star cones, yogurt containers, and soft blocks.
Isaiah went straight to the small ring stackers. He removed the rings and began switching them between two stackers. He explored this for quite some time before trying to place a ring into the plastic tube, showing curiosity about size, shape, and how objects connect.
Abir started by taking the rings off the large stacker. He then moved to the yogurt containers, placing them inside one another. Later, he added soft blocks to the containers. Kerren wondered if this was his way of stacking, as he showed persistence while exploring how objects fit together.
Eloise spent time stacking and unstacking the large rings. She then placed a mini pylon on top and smiled when it balanced. She continued adding more pieces to build a taller tower. Later, she used yogurt containers for stacking and also talked into one, demonstrating both construction skills and imaginative play.
Anson appeared unsure at first but showed interest in the large ring stacker. He picked up a ring and moved it while watching the balls inside. He then pulled the stacker closer. Kerren wondered if he was trying to place the ring on it, as he carefully observed cause and effect.
Micah explored many of the materials. He stacked pylons and star cones, then unstacked them and lined them up. Later, he placed rings around his ankles and walked around, showing creativity in how materials can be used.
Lou enjoyed stacking and unstacking the large rings. She placed a pylon on top and repeatedly took it off and put it back, demonstrating persistence and an understanding of balance.
Leona explored different ring stackers by stacking and unstacking them. She placed a tube into a star cone and shook it. Later, she stacked pylons, flipped them over, and shook them, exploring both structure and sound.
Bennett placed rings around his wrists like bracelets. He then stacked and unstacked star cones and wore one as a hat. He also shared a cone with Brookelyn (our Conestoga student), who placed it on his head while he balanced it, demonstrating positive social interaction.
Overall, the children showed a strong interest in stacking, balancing, and combining objects. They used trial and error and demonstrated persistence throughout their exploration. The variety of materials supported open-ended play and the development of different skills. To extend this interest further, additional loose parts, such as cardboard tubes, wooden blocks, or natural materials, could be introduced. Kerren wonders how the children might respond to building on different surfaces or inclines and whether offering containers of different sizes could further support their exploration of fitting and nesting.
