Soft blocks can indeed support gentle manipulative play, offering a safe and engaging way for children to develop important skills. These blocks are typically made from lightweight, soft materials such as foam, which makes them easy to handle and less likely to cause injury. Because of their softness and size, children can squeeze, stack, and arrange them without the risk of hurting themselves or others, encouraging exploration through touch and movement.
Gentle manipulative play involves activities that require careful handling and fine motor control, such as grasping, pressing, and positioning objects. Soft blocks provide an ideal medium for this because they respond to gentle pressure and can be manipulated in various ways. This kind of play helps strengthen hand muscles and improve dexterity, which are essential for everyday tasks like writing and using utensils. The tactile experience of soft blocks also supports sensory development by allowing children to feel different textures and pressures, which can be calming and help with emotional regulation.
Moreover, soft blocks encourage creativity and problem-solving. Children learn to balance and build structures, which enhances spatial awareness and cognitive skills. The softness of the blocks means children can experiment freely without fear of damage, promoting confidence and persistence. When used in group settings, these blocks also foster social skills such as sharing, turn-taking, and communication.
In summary, soft blocks are a versatile tool that supports gentle manipulative play by combining safety, sensory input, and opportunities for motor and cognitive development. They provide a nurturing environment where children can explore and refine their fine motor skills while engaging in imaginative and cooperative play.
Sources
https://londonspeechandfeeding.co.uk/post/the-joy-of-container-play/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQrUR6IEhmB/
https://www.whizkidz.com.au/how-tactile-play-supports-emotional-regulation/
https://smart.dhgate.com/why-are-fine-motor-skills-important-benefits-development/
