Building Blocks

The New York Times (February 10, 2008--Sunday Edition) has an article in the style section (p. 11) concerning Freiedrich Froebel's gift's--the theme for this blog. [Remember Froebel is considered the Father of the Kindergarten concept.] The gifts are actually wooden blocks for children that invites open-ended play. The Times article, Long Before Legos, Wood Was Nice and Did Suffice, is written by David Colman and captures the childhood experiences of designer Tucker Viemeister who used the wooden blocks as a child. Viemeister reminisces about playing with the blocks and saving them for his children. The article is a nice reminder that simple toys can be cherished and become part of the family, much unlike electronic toys that have very short lifespans.