Cardboard building blocks allow children to explore their creativity through imaginative construction play. Unlike flimsy cardboard boxes, these durable building blocks are designed specifically for little hands to build impressive structures. Read on to learn all about the benefits of large cardboard blocks and discover the best options for your preschooler or toddler.
What Are Large Cardboard Building Blocks?
Large cardboard building blocks are oversized, sturdy blocks made from dense cardboard or foam. They are larger versions of classic wooden blocks, with each block typically measuring around 5-10 inches on each side. The jumbo shape and size enable young kids to grasp and manipulate the blocks with ease.
The blocks connect together through slots, tabs, or other simple attachment mechanisms. Children can stack them vertically or arrange them horizontally to create buildings, bridges, mazes, and anything else they can dream up.
Unlike flimsy normal cardboard, these blocks are constructed from durable materials engineered to withstand rough play. Premium options use extra-thick 100% recycled cardboard certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Others feature colorful kid-safe laminate or silicone coatings.
Benefits of Playing with Large Building Blocks
Playing with super-sized building blocks offers many developmental and educational perks:
Cognitive Skills: Assembles structures through shape recognition, spatial reasoning, counting, grouping, and problem-solving.
Motor Skills: Develops hand-eye coordination, grasping, building balance and strength through block play.
Social Skills: Collaborative building encourages sharing ideas, compromising, negotiating roles, communicating, and teamwork.
Creativity & Imagination: Open-ended construction play allows innovation experimentation without limiting instructions.
Beyond these built-in learning opportunities, oversized blocks simply provide good clean fun!
Top Brands of Jumbo Cardboard Building Blocks
Many top manufacturers of early education toys now produce extra-large building block sets specially designed for preschoolers and toddlers. Some of the most popular options include:
• Melissa & Doug: Highly-rated for its detailed wood Melissa & Doug sets. It carries over durable craftsmanship to its Jumbo Cardboard Block sets made with premium thick cardboard.
• Lakeshore Learning: Specialists in engaging and educational children’s materials for both home and school. Offers affordable basics like its Jumbo Cardboard Block Set.
• Kaplan Early Learning: Known for its huge assortment of early learning toys and furniture. Manufactures the Brick Block Jumbo Building Set from sturdy and vividly colored cardboard.
• Bankers Box: Yes, the ubiquitous storage box brand also supplies cardboard blocks through its Bankers Box at Play line. Features lightweight blocks for easy building.
Of course, many other manufacturers offer jumbo building blocks as well, like Amazons Basics line and discount retailers. But opting for sets from the top educational brands ensures better quality.
Key Features of Quality Blocks
While blocks may seem pretty basic, not all large cardboard building blocks are created equal. Here is what to look for when assessing options:
• Material Composition: Premium options use 100% recycled cardboard certified by the FSC. Some feature laminate or silicone coatings for added durability and easy cleaning.
• Size & Weight: Blocks measure between 5-10 inches long on each side. Lightweight blocks weigh just a few ounces each. Heavier-duty blocks can weigh half a pound or more.
• Durability: Sets made from thicker, denser cardboard withstand more vigorous building. Sturdy blocks maintain shape after repeated use.
• Design: Bright colors and decorative shapes add to visual appeal. Some feature built-in appearance flexibility with brick, stone, or wood grain textures.
• Safety: Rounded corners, carrying handles, clean materials, and non-toxic coatings all ensure safe use.
Paying attention to these key factors helps guarantee that a set of oversized blocks will provide dynamic playtime experiences.
Popular Large Cardboard Block Sets
With so many options on the market, we’ve highlighted five of the best-selling large cardboard building block sets:
Brick Block Large Building Set
- 44 extra-large blocks
- Super-sturdy 1-inch thick cardboard
- Fun brick and stone textures
- Hues of red, blue, yellow, green
- Carry case with cut-outs
This premium Kaplan set stands apart from cheaper flimsier blocks found elsewhere. It earns rave reviews for its vivid colors, carrying case, and durable heavy-duty handheld or freestanding use. Parents love the imaginative play this set inspires.
Bankers Box at Play Cardboard Building Blocks
- 62 large and medium blocks
- Colorful alphabet, numbers & icons
- Lightweight set for easy building
- Great for spelling simple words
- Promotes early math & literacy
Intended for ages 3+, this affordable starter cardboard block set from Bankers Box checks all the boxes. The bright colors and decorative shapes combine building fun with early learning concepts.
Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
- Set of 40 large blocks
- 3 vibrant color options
- Made of durable cardboard
- Pieces measure 7” x 5” x 2.5”
- Promotes creativity & motor skills
As a Lakeshore Learning best-seller, this reasonably priced jumbo block set offers simplicity done right. With no assembly required, kids can start building straight out of the package. Available in blue, primary colors, or pink/purple packs.
Melissa & Doug Jumbo Cardboard Blocks
- Set includes 40 lightweight blocks
- Premium extra-thick cardboard
- Features brick and stone textures
- Dimensions: 5” x 2.5” x 10.5”
- Maker of high-quality toys
Trusted toymaker Melissa & Doug is known for superior craftsmanship and smart design. This set strikes an ideal balance between durability and easy manipulation for little hands. The realistic textures inspire all kinds of creative constructions.
FSC-Certified Jumbo Building Blocks
- Made from 100% recycled materials
- Eco-friendly FSC certification
- Set of 60 large building blocks
- Hues of red, yellow, green & blue
- Lightweight yet durable
Eco-parents love these forest-friendly jumbo blocks made sustainably from recycled cardboard. They earn high marks for quality construction that makes the most out of recycled materials in a fun, engaging way.
As this breakdown illustrates, there are fantastic options at a range of price points and features. Keep reading to discover more buying considerations.
Benefits of Cardboard Building Block Play
While kids need little reason to enjoy erecting towering structures, parents can rest assured this type of play builds crucial developmental skills.
Enhances Cognitive Development
Constructing creations requires visual-spatial processing, shape and color recognition, counting, measurement, sorting/classifying, and other cognitive competencies. Children also employ critical thinking to balance structures and problem-solve design issues.
Builds Motor Skills
Manipulating and lifting the lightweight blocks strengthens hand, arm, and shoulder muscles. Building block structures challenges hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and grasping abilities. Transporting loose blocks in the included carry case or bag also boosts motor skills.
Encourages Social & Emotional Growth
Collaborating on construction projects requires communication, compromise, teamwork, and task delegation. Imaginative role-playing games with structures builds self-awareness. Completing a fort or skyscraper together promotes bonding, pride, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.
Sparks Creativity & Imagination
Unlike kits with step-by-step instructions, open-ended block play allows for plenty of innovation and experimentation without limiting children to one “right” way to build. Kids incorporate their unique ideas, interests, and schemas to construct an endless variety of buildings and scenes.
With all these inherent learning benefits, this classic style of toy retains enduring popularity and value.
Age Recommendations
Manufacturers design jumbo building block sets with specific age groups in mind based on safety and developmental considerations:
Toddlers Ages 2-3
Toddlers can start simple block play with adult supervision. Look for lightweight sets with softer corners for this age. Help build balancing skills by starting horizontal structures low to the ground before vertical building.
Preschoolers Ages 3-5
Swallowing concerns diminish around age 3, enabling more complex building. Kids’ fine motor skills see rapid progress in the preschool years, allowing them to manipulate larger blocks with increasing coordination.
Educational Settings
Many pre-K classes and daycares use jumbo building blocks for hands-on learning. Hardy sets withstand repeat daily use from groups of energetic kids. Educators often mix cardboard blocks with other materials like tubes, beads, and accessories.
While all ages enjoy block construction play, tailor your purchase to best match your child’s current abilities for the most engaging experience.
Block Play Ideas and Activities
Children need little guidance when presented with a huge pile of oversized building blocks, as their natural creativity takes over. But you can inspire next-level constructions with a few basic play ideas:
- Building Challenges: Foster friendly competition and inspire teamwork. See who can build the tallest tower using a set number of blocks before it topples. Designate time limits for individuals or groups to construct buildings based on role assignments (e.g. architects, engineers, construction crew).
- Dramatic Play: Encourage kids to build settings and props to act out elaborate pretend scenarios. Construct castles, bridges, restaurants, schools, or farms to reinforce learning or work through real-life situations. Combine with other toys like figurines and toy cars.
- Collaborative Projects: Have siblings, friends or classmates work together towards a shared goal. Assign tasks like gathering specific colored blocks, designing blueprints, laying foundations, or embellishing façades. Celebrate the group’s accomplishments together!
In addition, use blocks in novel ways like spelling words, sorting by attributes, or incorporating into movement games by asking kids to crawl through block tunnels or hurdle short walls. Let those creative juices flow!
Assembly Tips
One advantage of jumbo cardboard building blocks is the quick and easy setup even for preschoolers. Here is how to get your new set ready for play:
1. Carefully unpack all blocks from box or bag. Some sets group blocks together with rubber bands by size or color to keep organized during shipping.
2. Review and discard all packaging materials properly. Recycle empty boxes and instructions so only blocks remain.
3.Wipe down blocks with damp cloth if needed to remove dust from shipping or storage. Allow to fully air dry before play.
4. Most sets are ready to start building right away with no assembly required! Construct a small sample structure together to demonstrate proper block alignment before opening the floor up to your child’s creativity.
With these user-friendly cardboard building blocks ready to go, kids’ imaginations can run wild creating impressive structures. Now on to maintaining and caring for your blocks.
Storage and Cleaning Best Practices
With proper care and maintenance, a quality set of jumbo cardboard building blocks will provide years of creative construction fun. Follow these tips to keep them looking like new:
Storage Solutions
Designate a bin, closet shelf, or other defined storage spot so blocks stay tidy when not in use. Some sets include a zippered carrying case or cloth storage bag. Stacking blocks vertically helps prevent warping.
Surface Cleaning
Take blocks apart fully and wipe down all sides with a microfiber cloth dampened slightly with water or disinfecting spray. Allow to completely air dry before re-stacking to prevent mold growth.
Deep Cleaning
For a deeper periodic cleaning, use mild dish soap and warm water applied lightly with a sponge. Rinse blocks fully with clean water and let air dry overnight. Avoid soaking cardboard blocks to prevent deterioration.
Following these maintenance steps extends the life of your blocks. Reach out to the manufacturer for replacement assistance if any damage occurs with responsible use.
Child Safety Precautions
While cardboard blocks present less concerns compared to smaller toys, always prioritize safety with little ones:
- Review recommended age guidelines and supervise play appropriately
- Monitor build heights to prevent toppling structures
- Ensure loose blocks do not present tripping hazards
- Watch for attempts to nibble or chew on blocks
- Assist with transporting blocks to prevent falling stacks
Proper adult oversight helps minimize any risks of cuts, choking, or other minor injury during enthusiastic block construction!
The Future of Cardboard Blocks
Looking ahead, several promising trends emerge when it comes to innovation in extra-large building blocks:
Technology Integration: Light-up blocks, blocks incorporating simple circuits, and app-connected blocks bring programming basics to block play. These additions introduce early coding skills.
Customization: As 3D printing becomes more accessible, parents can design specialty blocks coordinating with their child’s room décor or featuring their name. Small batch manufacturing enables this personalization.
Sustainable Materials: Eco-friendly brands like Greentoys emphasize renewable materials and responsible manufacturing. Expect more FSC-certified and plant-based plastic blocks catering to sustainability-minded parents.
While cardboard construction blocks have satisfied children for generations, some exciting additions lay on the horizon!
Conclusion: Why Jumbo Building Blocks?
With countless toy options competing for kids’ attention these days, sticking with simple tried-and-true classics allows for more creativity and imagination than any flashy gizmo ever could. Large cardboard building blocks rank among the best open-ended toys for fostering important developmental skills through play.
For toddlers, oversized blocks represent achievable builds helping coordintion. Preschoolers hone fine motor dexterity manipulating and constructing detailed structures. Parents appreciate relatable mess-free play activating young minds. And teachers utilize jumbo blocks frequently for hands-on learning.
Durable sets made from thick FSC-certified cardboard withstand endless arrangements and introductions of various themes and accessories. This flexible style of toy builds right along with each child through years of use.
So rather than getting caught up in the latest toy fads, give extra-large cardboard building blocks a try for screen-free learning fun. Those tower constructions may just reach the ceiling someday!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best large cardboard building blocks?
The best large cardboard building blocks feature thick, durable construction from 100% recycled materials like those found in sets from Melissa & Doug, Kaplan Early Learning Company, and Lakeshore Learning. Opt for FSC-certified blocks made sustainably from responsible sources. Also prioritize safety with rounded corners.
How many large blocks come in a set?
Common configurations include sets of 40, 50 or 60+ extra-large cardboard blocks measuring around 5-10 inches square. Consider the number of kids expected to build together when determining quantity. Beyond counts, focus on quality thick, premium cardboard over sets with more flimsy blocks.
What ages are big cardboard blocks suitable for?
Large cardboard blocks work well for children ranging from toddlers ages 2 up through 5 years old. Look for lightweight sets with softer edges for younger builders or sturdier heavy-duty blocks for advanced preschool-aged construction. Sets meeting Consumer Product Safety Guidelines feature safe, non-toxic materials ideal for the preschool demographic.
How can you use giant building blocks creatively?
Extra-large building blocks inspire all kinds of creative play! Construct elaborate buildings and infrastructure like castles, bridges and roads while encouraging imaginative additions. Or orchestrate fun hands-on learning activities like spelling words, sorting by attributes or incorporating blocks into movement games. Collaborative projects promote teamwork as kids assign roles and responsibilities. The only limits are kids’ imaginations!
Why choose cardboard over plastic blocks?
Sustainably-sourced cardboard makes a smart eco-friendly choice over plastic blocks. Responsible manufacturers like Melissa & Doug utilize 100% recycled materials and non-toxic dyes. Cardboard also tends to cost less than heavy-duty plastic building blocks. Made properly, thick premium cardboard proves plenty durable for energetic builders. Prioritize safety and versatility over materials alone when comparing options.
How do you clean large building blocks?
Periodically wipe down all sides of blocks with a damp microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner paying special attention to crevices. Allow blocks to completely air dry before stacking to prevent mold growth. While cardboard blocks hold up to reasonable wear, take care not to overly soak or submerge blocks. Consult manufacturer guidelines for any deep cleaning recommendations.
Can you repair damaged cardboard blocks?
Inspect blocks regularly for signs of damage after vigorous play sessions. Discard and replace overly worn blocks with missing chunks or ripped surfaces that could pose safety hazards. Touch up minor cosmetic damage to block corners or designs using non-toxic glue and replace faded labels. Reach out to the manufacturer directly about any issues under warranty or for replacement parts.