Review of Learning Resources' Plastic Pattern Blocks For Learning Colors, Shapes, and Math!

One of my all time favorite things to play with was the pattern blocks we had in elementary school. I remember sitting in the back of the classroom and making things all the time. I made houses and dogs and stars and flowers and all sorts of fun things. I wanted to relive that experience with Froot Loop, so I put them on his Christmas list. 

I have had these pattern blocks sitting around for over a year because Froot Loop just never seemed ready enough to use them. recently, I remembered I had them and pulled them out since Froot Loop seemed to be in a constructive and learning mood. 

We have the plastic set, but I remember the wood blocks we had in elementary school. These are the same shapes, but are a lighter plastic. Basically, it’s your preference if you want wood or plastic as there's a different set that is wood. The only difference is that the wood set is a little more expensive. 

I put them out and showed him all the different shapes of blocks. He was able to identify all of the shapes, which I was pleased about. Then, I showed him how two half hexagons (trapezoids) make a full hexagon just like the yellow one. Then I showed him how three blue diamonds fit together to make another hexagon, and then how two triangles make a diamond and six triangles make another hexagon. He was fascinated by this and spent a few minutes making more hexagons. 

I asked him if he wanted to make some more shapes with the blocks and showed him how to make a sun and a flower and a house, etc. (all the things I used to make as a kid). He loved these and then tried to make his own designs. He put two skinny diamonds together to make butterflies and two diamonds together to make birds. He then helped me make mosaics and flowers and more. We had a fun time. Froot Loop loved figuring out how the different shapes fit together. 

I would like to find some pattern block cards so he can place the blocks on the cards. I found some on Amazon, but I don’t really want to spend that much money on them. I’m sure there are tons of bloggers out there who have made these cards and we can just print them out. I was just hoping to find some nice, laminated cards or a spiral bound book or something. Anyone out there have one they can recommend? 

Soon, Froot Loop got tired of playing with these blocks, but he told me he already wanted to play with them tomorrow. I’m so glad he’s ready for them now at 3 ½. I’ve been looking forward to playing with him. I enjoyed playing with them too. It was fun making designs and oddly relaxing. I’ll have to get them out while he’s napping. 

Remember to keep them away from babies and young children who still put everything in their mouths. I’d also keep them away from curious pets who tend to eat things (LOOKING AT YOU, LUCKY CHARMS!). 

My only complaint is that I wish we had more of them! I’m thinking of purchasing another set if we really start getting into these blocks. 
So much fun! They were a blast from my past and I thoroughly enjoyed introducing one of my favorite things to my favorite oldest son. 

What was your favorite toy/activity in elementary school?