The Unexpected Uses of Tangrams and the Value of Exploratory Play

Tangrams are great because they teach kids math concepts, visual-spatial, and critical thinking skills. Structured activities like this also allow them opportunities to follow directions, and who doesn’t want that? But keep in mind that unstructured play has value as well.

The concept is simple: There’s a mat with a pattern on it, and the children use the shapes provided in order to “copy” the shape. Sounds simple and pretty fun for an educational activity, right?

Sure, except that there is value in spending some time exploring new materials without being told what you “have to” or “need to” do with them. This is Bianca’s 4th or 5th time playing with tangrams, and as you can see, she still prefers stacking them all (which is a pretty impressive skill in itself, if you ask me) in order to make a sandwich or a tower. So I let her do that for a little while before we “get to” try and put them on the mat.

Children are typically pretty resistant to words such as “have to” and “need to,” but when we let go of our desire to have everything go exactly as we had envisioned it, we move into the “I get to” circle, which is a much more happy space for all of us to be in.

In short, here are my take-home lessons for the day:
• When introducing a new toy or activity, let them explore the materials for a little while before giving them directions to follow. Learning IS happening during “free play.”
• Language is important! Consider using “get to” instead of “have to” or “need to” when your child’s plan for the materials differs from your own.
• Repeated exposure will get you closer to your goal. If something didn’t work out once, don’t throw in the towel just yet, especially if it’s a new toy or experience. Wait a few days (or weeks) and try again. My child is proof that there’s hope, and developmentally, they may not be ready yet. Be persistent but patient.
• Have fun while playing with your child! They may not remember all the details of everything you teach them, but they’ll remember that you were present, and that is PRICELESS!