Monkey Blocks

Monkey Blocks - Includes 30 challenges, weighted blocks and funky monkeys.

When was the last time you had a barrel of fun? If it's been awhile, today is your lucky day. Monkey Blocks provides 30 challenges to create gravity defying structures topped with silly monkeys. What's the secret? Weighted blocks.

Build the 3D structures from the 2D models in the book using three different types of blocks. They all look the same except for the color, but they are different inside. The yellow blocks are weighted on one end and the green blocks are weighted in the middle. The blue blocks are not weighted. The individual must figure out where the weight goes before he places each block or he may topple the structure and have to start over. Some puzzles may require that you place 2 blocks simultaneously (one in each hand) to keep the structure balanced. The monkeys are each doing something different, and the pattern is specific as to which monkey to place where. 

Try this:

• Play with the blocks before you start the pattern book so that the individual can get a feel of the weighted pieces and how they respond when stacked this way or that.
• Build a structure while the player looks on. Talk out loud as you problem solve and plan how to build. Verbally go through your reasoning so they can learn the process.
• Practice placing two blocks at the same time. Place one block horizontal on the table, then with a block in each hand, simultaneously stack/balance 2 blocks horizontally and then 2 blocks vertically.  That way the child can practice without the disappointment of toppling the whole structure.
• Take the structures apart, one piece at a time, without toppling.
• Cover all but the pieces that the individual will add each step (plus the pieces already built), if they have trouble reading the picture or knowing where to start or how to proceed.
• Imitate the monkeys and make funny monkey sounds after successfully completing a structure.
• Peel and eat a banana or eat crunchy banana chips.
• Open the book and build one of the structures, without letting the individual see where you are looking in the book. Ask the individual to look at the structures in the book and choose the one that looks just like yours.
• Work on visual discrimination, visual closure, spatial relations, 2D to 3D construction, eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, problem solving, executive functioning skills, planning, process skills, play and leisure exploration and participation

In the box: 12 blocks, 6 monkeys, 30 puzzles

If you are interested in purchasing this game or just want more information, click on the image below to go to Amazon.com.