Kendall, my 4 year old, seems to be rapidly picking up basic literacy skills these days. It’s like something just clicked in him, and now he’s pointing out and writing down letters, even sounding out words when coached. I wouldn’t go so far as to say he can read, but it’s exciting to think that’s not too far off in the distance.
I attribute this, largely, to the preschool program he was in last year and will continue to be in this upcoming school year, along with the work his father puts in. Truthfully, I just don’t have it in me – the patience- to be the one to teach him this stuff. I can’t really sit down with him and help him practice writing his letters or sounding out words without both of us getting frustrated. He and I seem to have more fun learning together when we’re just doing everyday things or playing.
Cue the LEGO DUPLO Bricks and Book Set that LEGO sent me.
Kendall’s a recent fan of all things LEGO, having received his first set earlier this year. It’s amazing to see what his imagination can come up with when given just a box of colorful bricks. Really, it makes me want to get rid of half the toys we own that don’t inspire such creativity.
The LEGO DUPLO Bricks & Book set has been a great way for me to work with him on his reading skills, pointing out and helping him sound out the simple words in the book, while keeping things fun for us.
Now, I’ll admit that upon seeing how the kit spelled out each specific animal to build, and only came with enough blocks for those animals, I was a little disappointed that it wasn’t more open-ended. 5 minutes into playing with all the pieces, though, and after putting the 4 animals together that came with the kit, Kendall grabbed the rest of the DUPLOS we already have, and put this together…
Then he proudly exclaimed, “It’s a FOX!” He’s never made an animal out of any of the LEGOS before, and now I can’t stop him.
We even took a few minutes to write down F-O-X on a piece of paper. It’s a start!
Now, who among you would like to win $100 to spend on LEGOs? One lucky commenter will win just that! Just comment below telling me how you think Books and Bricks will help your child learn to read.
Visit LEGO.com to see other Read & Build sets and order online. Check out BlogHer.com to find other reviews and more ways you can enter to win.
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d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older. Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail. You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here.
This sweepstakes runs from 7/11 – 8/19/12.