Table toys include puzzles, various table blocks, and other small construction materials such as Legos, Ring-a-Majigs, and collections of objects (including shells, bottle caps, and buttons). When children use table toys, they learn many new skills and concepts, including:

• sorting and classifying things according to their own categories
• judging distance, direction, right and left, up and down; and
• describing what they are thinking and doing.

When children use table toys in the classroom, we encourage them to talk about what they are doing. For example, we might say:

• “Tell me about those blocks you are using.”
• “How did you get those rings to fit together?”

We also ask questions that help children extend their thinking as they play with table toys. These questions and comments are designed to help the children become aware of what they are doing and develop their thinking skills.

The most important contribution you can make to your child’s learning with table toys is to take an interest in what your child does, both at home and in school.

(Taking from: The Creative Curriculum for Early Childhood, 1988)

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