An architect according to Dictionary.com is a deviser, maker or creator of anything. They are creative, thoughtful and approach a project with a goal in mind. They have a plan to accomplish that goal but as they work on their plan, trial and error help redefine the plan and new ideas are implemented. Children at play are architects at work.
Open-ended toys are the best for developing the skills and encouraging the learning that building provides. They provide a wealth of problem-solving experiences, develop persistence as a structure continues to topple over while the child is discovering how to build a strong foundation. Math is actively learned as children explore shapes, compare sizes and encounter weight.
Construction can be performed as a solitary activity or in a group. Learning to work together, share ideas, explore others points of view and language development are all enhanced when working in a group. Conflict resolution is learned as children work out how to implement everyone's ideas or how to rule out ideas and handle the rejection of your idea being the one ruled out.
Solitary construction enhances problem-solving, allows for research skills to be cultivated and teaches a child to recognize when they need help. It provides them a chance to see they need others.
Social-emotional development and self-esteem are cultivated as a child learns what they are capable of and see success in their own skills. Learning that failure is not the end but the ability to try again and learn from your mistakes. The sense of accomplishment, when your tower finally stays standing, helps reaffirm I am a capable human being. I can do this! This sense of pride carries over into future challenges and helps create future success.
Sculpting is another form of construction. The artist molds or forms his 3 dimensional creation with a plan in mind. As they work with their medium they learn what it can and cannot do. They develop new ways to get it to do what they desire it to do or they adapt and let the medium teach them new ways to adjust their vision. The artist, like the architect, works in harmony with the art medium to design the final outcome.
Providing loose parts, blocks and other items to build with will create a mess. Toys will spill all over, voices will get loud as struggles are encountered and frustrations will lead to upset; however, all of these are needed to help the child grow and develop in many areas.
Don't be dismayed by the process. Embrace it and watch the growth. Examine the learning, note the way a situation was handled today and compare it to the last time a similar situation occurred. Often our first response is to fix or educate. Sit back and observe. Let the student teach you. Let them learn what they are capable of and be encouraged to discover who they are in times of trial.
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