How to Play and Learn with SumBlox and SumBlox Minis
August 10, 2021
Learning maths has never been easier, or more fun thanks to the SumBlox range!
Allie and her team of little learners have spent the last few weeks playing with the NEW SumBlox Minis in combination with their set of original SumBlox, and they offered us some really useful and insightful ideas on how to use the ranges both individually and together.
If you're looking for some inspiration on how to use your new SumBlox range, advice on which set to choose, or if you need some convincing that SumBlox is the right choice for you and your little learners - then look no further!
Images and videos created by Allie @woodentoyplay for Oskar's Wooden Ark.
What are SumBlox?
Made from high quality and solid hardwood, SumBlox are a multi-sensory maths tool that teach children the value of numbers in a perceivable format. The higher the number, the taller the block. No matter how you stack them, if the numbers add up, the heights will match - a simple, yet effective learning concept. By playing with SumBlox, your kids will be learning without even realising it. Proven to be a math-manipulative learning aid, SumBlox promote both visual and kinesthetic learning. SumBlox allow children to understand and remember key maths concept through their own play discovery, in an engaging and interactive way, while encouraging problem-solving and imaginative play.
Kids naturally love playing with blocks, so SumBlox are guaranteed to be a favourite amongst them (and you!)
How do the original SumBlox compare with the new SumBlox Minis?
The concept of both the original SumBlox and the SumBlox Minis is the same, the main difference being their size. The Minis are 50% smaller, but there are 70% more blocks included in each set.
Notably, the new Mini range is made to metric unit dimensions - meaning each consecutive number increases by 1cm. A number 1 block is 1cm, a number 2 block is 2cm, and so on. The Minis also come with a large assortment of activity cards, including fun play and learning ideas, challenges and games.
Both SumBlox and SumBlox Minis are recommended for children aged 3+ due to small parts. SumBlox Minis are often favoured by parents with older children as a great choice for table-top play and learning. They can also be enjoyed 'on the move' thanks to their handy wooden storage box. Original SumBlox are great for big builds and floor play and their chunky size makes them a good choice for little hands.
How can SumBlox be used for learning Maths?
They can be utilised in many areas of mathematics including Addition and Subtraction, Multiplication, Fractions, adding Fractions, and some teachers are
even teaching Year 6 Algebra with them! In addition, through playing with SumBlox children will learn balance and counter balance, problem-solving, number
recognition, sorting, patters and more.
What else can I do with SumBlox and SumBlox Minis?
There are many playful build ideas which your children will enjoy attempting with the Sumblox range. Each SumBlox Minis set comes with a collection of activity cards to inspire you! Allie's little learners have chosen to make a giraffe!
Click here for play and learn activity ideas for children of different ages, including ball runs, building and stacking ideas, imaginative creations and small world play.
Are SumBlox compatible with other block sets?
Yes! Both SumBlox sets can be used in conjunction with other blocks we stock including, but not limited to, Just Block and Grimm's. Both ranges can be combined with any other OWA toys and building sets for unlimited open-ended play.
Allie shows us just how the Mini range compares to Just Blocks.
Which SumBlox set should I buy?
Both SumBlox ranges encourage children to foster many skill sets through both learning and play. Consider what size would be best for your child, or use the Mini set as a starting point if you’re uncertain. You can always upgrade to the original size later on and even use them together as a combined set for even more play possibilities. Each set provides something a little different that will challenge your children in new and exciting ways as they grow.
A SUMmary of the ORIGINAL SumBlox Range:
SumBlox Originals Starter Set 27 Pcs (perfect for introducing SumBlox at home)
+ Ten 1 blocks
+ Two each of the 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 blocks
+ One 10 block
+ Math Guide + 3 cards
SumBlox Originals Basic Set 47 Pcs (perfect for everybody who is homeschooling)
+ Fourteen 1 blocks
+ Four each of the 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 blocks
+ One 10 block
+ Math Guide + 4 cards
SumBlox Originals Educational Set 100 Pcs (a must have for every classroom)
+ Thirty 1 blocks
+ Twelve 2 blocks
+ Eight each of the 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 blocks
+ Two 10 blocks
+ Four Lesson Books
A SUMmary of the NEW SumBlox Mini Range:
SumBlox Minis Starter Set 38 Blocks & 36 Activity Cards
+ Fourteen 1 blocks
+ Six 2 blocks
+ Four 3 blocks
+ Two each of the 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 blocks
+ One 10 block
+ 36 Activity Cards for play and learning
+ a wooden box for storage
SumBlox Minis Basic Set 80 Blocks & 80 Activity Cards
+ Thirty-Two 1 blocks
+ Twelve 2 blocks
+ Eight 3 blocks
+ Six 4 blocks
+ Four each of the 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 blocks
+ Two 10 blocks
+ 80 Activity Cards for play and learning
+ a wooden box for storage
Watch the below video where a happy customer "SUMS" up her experience with the SumBlox Mini Range. Thank you Kathryn for sharing your experience with us!
We would love to hear and see what you and your little learners get up to with your SumBlox ranges! Remember to join The Wooden Ark Family on Facebook and tag us on Instagram!