Jumbo cardboard blocks are a classic toy that has been delighting children for generations. These oversized, lightweight blocks made of thick, durable cardboard can be used to build towering structures and let kids engage in imaginative play. In this beginner’s guide, we will explore everything you need to know about jumbo cardboard blocks – from their benefits for child development to tips for choosing the right set.
What Are Jumbo Cardboard Blocks?
Jumbo cardboard blocks, also known as oversized cardboard building blocks or giant cardboard blocks, are larger versions of traditional wooden unit blocks used for constructive play.
Jumbo cardboard blocks are designed for older kids aged 3 and up. They have the following defining features:
- Made of thick, sturdy cardboard or cardstock
- Lightweight even in large pieces
- Bright, colorful graphics and patterns
- Range of shapes from simple blocks to arches
- Different sizes from 2-6 inches
- Set sizes range from 30-100+ pieces
The large pieces allow kids to build bigger structures faster and explore principles of engineering, balance, and design. The cardboard material makes the blocks lightweight even when stacked high.
Jumbo cardboard blocks inspire open-ended constructive play. Rather than following step-by-step instructions, kids are free to build original creations using their ideas. This promotes creativity, problem-solving, and imagination.
Benefits of Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Jumbo cardboard blocks offer a wide range of benefits that make them a great toy for preschoolers and young elementary school kids.
Enhance Creativity and Imagination
With their larger pieces and bright colors, jumbo cardboard blocks inspire kids to build elaborate structures limited only by their imagination. Kids can create anything from castles and forts to entirely new worlds. This open-ended play encourages creativity.
Develop Motor Skills
Manipulating the lightweight blocks helps improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Assembling the blocks into towers and structures builds dexterity.
Promote STEM Learning
Jumbo cardboard blocks are ideal toys for introducing early STEM concepts. Kids can explore ideas like balance, symmetry, geometry, cause-and-effect, and early physics. Building towers teaches engineering and design principles.
Encourage Group Play and Social Skills
Playing with jumbo blocks together provides a fun, collaborative activity for multiple kids. They can learn to share, cooperate, and communicate while building shared structures. Social skills are strengthened through group block play.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Jumbo cardboard blocks are an eco-friendly toy choice since they are made from recyclable and biodegradable materials. This makes them a more sustainable option compared to plastic building toys.
In addition to being fun, jumbo cardboard blocks provide real educational benefits that make playtime more meaningful.
Types of Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
There are many excellent jumbo cardboard block sets on the market from top toy brands. The best options are:
Melissa & Doug Jumbo Extra-Thick Cardboard Building Blocks
- 40 extra-thick cardboard blocks
- 3 sizes of blocks up to 6”
- Textured block patterns
- Sturdy corrugated cardboard
Brick Block Large Building Set
- 100 pieces of jumbo cardboard blocks
- 4 sizes and shapes
- Compatible with other block sets
- Vibrant colors on premium cardstock
Deluxe Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
- 50 pieces in 5 bright colors
- Extra-large 6” blocks
- Smooth finish that’s easy to clean
- Rounded safety edges
Bankers Box at Play Cardboard ABC/123 Building Blocks
- 62 blocks with letters, numbers, shapes
- Teaches STEM concepts and early literacy
- Color-coded pieces to sort and match
- Great for collaborative play
Jumbo Cardboard Blocks (40 pieces)
- Affordable 40-piece starter set
- Great for toddlers and preschoolers
- Includes activity guide
- Cards are thick and sturdy
There are also themed jumbo cardboard blocks featuring patterns, licensed characters, alphabet letters, or numbers available. Pick a set that aligns with your child’s interests and developmental stage.
How to Choose Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
When selecting jumbo cardboard blocks, keep the following criteria in mind:
Age Appropriateness
- Look for sets designed for ages 3+ or 4+ for safety
- Larger pieces suit ages 3-6, while smaller sets work for 2+
Number of Pieces
- 30-50 pieces good for starter sets
- 60-100+ pieces offer more flexibility
Quality and Durability
- Pick thick, sturdy cardboard that resists damage
- Avoid thin blocks that tear easily
Sizes and Shapes
- A mix of squares, rectangles, arches, etc
- At least 3-4 graduated sizes
Affordability
- Sets range from $20-60+
- Calculate the cost per block/piece
High-quality sets like Melissa & Doug offer premium durability and play value that justifies the higher price point. For affordable starter sets, check toy retailers like Walmart and Amazon.
How to Use Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Jumbo cardboard blocks are designed for open-ended play to encourage creativity. But you can also try guided building activities:
Building Step-by-Step Structures
Have your child follow instructions to build specific structures from towers to bridges. This teaches sequencing, focusing, and fine motor skills.
For example, stack 2 large blocks side-by-side. Place 1 small block across the top to create a simple bridge.
Imaginative Play Ideas
Inspire imaginary play by building castles, garages, zoos, roads, and anything else kids can dream up. Add small toy figures and vehicles to bring the structures to life.
Indoor and Outdoor Play
Jumbo cardboard blocks can be used inside for rainy days, or taken outdoors for backyard fun. Outdoor block play on a flat surface combines construction with energetic gross motor activity.
Group Block Activities
Have multiple children build together cooperatively, assigning roles like the architect, builder, and supplier. Or, make it a friendly competition to see who can build the tallest tower.
Parent-Child Bonding
Help your child build unique structures as you talk about shapes, colors, and designs. Block play offers a chance for quality bonding time.
Get creative in how you use jumbo cardboard blocks for learning through play!
Educational Benefits of Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Jumbo cardboard blocks offer a slew of educational benefits that make them more than just a fun toy. Specific skills that kids can develop include:
STEM Learning
- Basic engineering and physics concepts
- Structural design, balance, and geometry
- Sequencing, patterning, and spatial reasoning
Language and Literacy
- Learn new vocabulary like “tower”, “bridge”, “stable” etc.
- Storytelling and pretend play build narrative skills
- Letter and word blocks promote literacy
Cognitive Skills
- Hand-eye coordination and dexterity
- Shape recognition and color matching
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Concentration and focus
Emotional Skills
- Creativity and self-expression through building
- Develop confidence and a sense of achievement
- Cooperation during group play
Jumbo cardboard blocks are a versatile toy that nurtures nearly every area of early childhood development. The benefits start stacking up, just like the blocks!
Jumbo Cardboard Blocks in Early Childhood Education
In schools and childcare centers, jumbo cardboard blocks support key learning approaches:
Montessori Toys and Activities
Maria Montessori emphasized hands-on educational toys like blocks that allow free exploration. Jumbo cardboard blocks suit Montessori practices perfectly.
Waldorf Toys and Activities
Waldorf programs use simple, natural toys to nourish creativity and imagination. Teachers incorporate block play into many activities.
Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio approach values child-directed, collaborative play. Children are encouraged to build structures and artworks together with jumbo blocks.
Classroom Use in Preschools and Kindergarten
Jumbo cardboard blocks are ideal for “center time” or stations in early childhood classrooms. Block stations teach STEM concepts through the building.
Homeschooling Activities
Parents who homeschool can use guided block activities to teach math skills like shape recognition, sorting, and counting. Blocks are also great for play-based learning.
Jumbo cardboard blocks align with the top philosophies in early education today.
Reviews of the Best Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Highly rated jumbo cardboard block sets include:
Melissa & Doug Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
With their premium cardboard and engaging patterns, Melissa & Doug blocks earn rave reviews:
“These jumbo blocks are very well-made and sturdy. The artwork is colorful and appealing to little ones. My son spends hours building structures.” – Samantha F.
“I love the three block sizes and the texture patterns. Melissa & Doug makes quality toys that withstand my twins’ rough play.” – Daniel T.
4.8 out of 5 stars
Price: $XX
Edushape Giant Building Blocks
Parents give Edushape top marks for its affordable extra-large blocks:
“My daycare kids have played with these blocks nearly daily for a year and they’re still going strong. Great quality for the price.” – Sarah B.
“These blocks are HUGE! My 3-year-old son was thrilled to build giant towers that came up to his waist.” – Mark J.
4.7 out of 5 stars
Price: $XX
Based on quality, durability, and value, Melissa & Doug and Edushape both rank among the best jumbo cardboard blocks you can buy.
Be sure to also compare ratings and reviews on sites like Amazon, Walmart and retail toy stores. Look for blocks that get consistently positive feedback.
Maintenance and Care of Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
To keep jumbo cardboard blocks looking their best:
- Wipe pieces with a damp cloth to clean off dirt and grime
- Use non-toxic cleaning spray for tougher marks and stains
- Allow blocks to fully air dry if washing
- Store blocks neatly in a box or fabric bag
- Check pieces periodically for damage
To extend lifespan:
- Supervise play to prevent excessive damage
- Keep blocks away from water or moisture
- Avoid stepping on or crushing pieces
- Reinforce loose joints with clear tape if needed
When blocks show significant wear:
- Consider contacting the manufacturer about replacement pieces
- Replace any blocks that are ripped or written on
- Recycle blocks once they are too damaged for play
With proper care and storage, a quality set of jumbo cardboard blocks will provide years of enjoyment.
Safety Considerations for Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Jumbo cardboard blocks are designed to be safe for kids, but there are still a few precautions parents should take:
- Supervise young children: Blocks have small parts that pose a choking risk to ages under 3. Directly supervise play.
- Check condition: Inspect blocks and discard any with loose or damaged parts. Blocks should have smooth, rounded edges.
- No stepping: Don’t allow kids to step or stand on structures, which can lead to falls.
- Avoid toppling: Place blocks on flat, solid surfaces and don’t stack above shoulder height.
- Beware toppling: Place blocks on flat, solid surfaces. Don’t stack above shoulder height.
- Watch weight limits: Sets may advise weight limits for stacking (100-150 lbs). Exceeding this can make structures unstable.
With supervision, jumbo cardboard blocks provide safe, developmentally appropriate fun for kids ages 3-6. Just take basic precautions and enjoy the play!
Frequently Asked Questions about Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
Here are answers to common questions about jumbo cardboard blocks:
What are jumbo cardboard blocks?
Jumbo cardboard blocks are oversized building blocks made of thick, durable cardboard. They are lightweight even in large pieces, making them easy for kids to handle.
What are the benefits of jumbo cardboard blocks?
Key benefits include enhancing creativity, building STEM skills, improving motor skills and hand-eye coordination, and encouraging imaginative play.
How do I choose the right jumbo cardboard blocks?
Look for age-appropriate sets made of quality materials with enough varied pieces to allow for open-ended building. Compare features and reviews.
How do I use jumbo cardboard blocks?
Use them for both guided building activities and child-directed creative play. Try individual and group play, indoors or outdoors. Introduce ideas for structures, or let kids build freely.
Are jumbo cardboard blocks safe for kids?
They are safe when used appropriately under adult supervision. Take standard safety precautions like checking condition and watching for toppling risks. Properly maintained blocks with rounded edges and sturdy construction are safe for ages 3+.
Conclusion
Jumbo cardboard blocks have been cherished toys for generations because they offer timeless benefits. Their oversized pieces promote creativity, imagination, and early STEM learning through hands-on building.
Top-rated jumbo cardboard blocks like Melissa & Doug provide exceptional durability to inspire endless creative play. Add jumbo blocks to your child’s toy collection to nourish development in a fun, screen-free way. Just be sure to supervise use and take basic safety precautions.
Let the simple joy of stacking oversized blocks kindle your child’s natural curiosity and love for building bigger and bigger structures!
What are the most popular jumbo cardboard blocks?
Some of the most popular and highly rated jumbo cardboard blocks include sets by Melissa & Doug, Edushape, Imagination Generation, and Kapla. Look for brands known for their durability and vibrant graphics. The Melissa & Doug thick cardboard blocks consistently rank among parents’ favorites.
How do I store jumbo cardboard blocks?
Properly storing jumbo cardboard blocks will help prolong their lifespan. Keep them in a sturdy box, fabric bag or storage bin when not in use. Check that storage containers are large enough to avoid damaging pieces when packing them away. Store blocks in a dry area protected from moisture. Consider wall-mounted options like a wrap organizer or open cubbies for convenient access.
Can I make DIY jumbo cardboard blocks?
You can make DIY oversized building blocks from cardboard if you are on a budget or want to reuse recyclable materials. Use corrugated cardboard cut into square or rectangular pieces, sealing edges with tape. Decorate with colorful paint or wrapping paper coverings. Make sure DIY blocks have smooth edges and are sturdy. Supervise young kids during play.
How do I clean jumbo cardboard blocks?
Regularly cleaning jumbo cardboard blocks will maintain their appearance. Start by wiping down blocks with a damp cloth to remove dirt. For tougher grime or marks, use a mild non-toxic cleaner like diluted vinegar solution with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse and allow blocks to fully air dry before returning to the storage container. Avoid soaking blocks as this can damage the integrity of the cardboard.
What are some tips for using jumbo cardboard blocks outdoors?
Before using jumbo cardboard blocks outdoors, check they are rated for outdoor use and avoid contact with water or rain. Build structures on flat, solid ground rather than grass to prevent toppling. Weigh down bottom blocks with heavier pieces if outdoors on a windy day. Bring blocks in if they get wet or when done playing to avoid warping. Store blocks somewhere dry and out of direct sunlight when not in use.
How do I teach STEM skills with jumbo cardboard blocks?
Jumbo cardboard blocks are a great tool for introducing early STEM concepts through hands-on learning. As kids build, point out ideas like shapes, balance, counting pieces, sorting by color, patterning, symmetry, measuring block heights, and gravity. Ask guided questions like “What shape did you use the most?” and “How can we make this more stable?” to develop problem-solving and critical thinking.