Block towers to build and knock down

Step by step

1. 1Set up blocks or stacking cups on the floor in an open space.
2. 2Build a first tower together, taking turns to add a piece.
3. 3Announce the demolition ('Your turn to knock it down!') and let them crash it with glee: it's part of the fun.
4. 4Rebuild right away: the build-and-crash cycle is the whole point of the activity, not misbehavior.
5. 5Gently add little challenges: taller than yesterday, stacked from biggest to smallest, or a bridge with two pillars.
6. 6Tidy up by stacking the blocks into their bin: one last tower disguised as cleanup.

What it builds

To keep a tower standing, little ones must line things up, control their touch, and pick the right sizes: a complete workout for little hands and minds. And knocking it down isn't destructive—it's how they see cause and effect in action before trying again even better.