Helping Mitchell Grow: Introducing Big Chunky Blocks

By Kyle, 19, Volunteer at Shepherd's Daycare

At Shepherd's Daycare, every child develops at their own pace, and sometimes that means finding creative ways to support their growth. Mitchell is a two-year-old who stands out—not just because of his size but also because of his advanced skills compared to other toddlers. While many kids his age enjoy simple toys, Mitchell often gravitates toward more complex activities. However, I've noticed that easing him into playing with baby toys could be a great way to help him develop important skills and connect better with his peers.

Recently, I decided to gift Mitchell a set of big chunky blocks. These blocks are designed specifically for toddlers—they’re large, colorful, and easy to handle, making them safe and perfect for little hands. My goal was to introduce him gently to toys that encourage fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and cooperative play. Even though Mitchell is bigger and more advanced, starting with these simpler toys can help build a strong foundation for his continued development.

During playtime, I sat down with Mitchell and showed him how to stack the blocks, build towers, and then knock them down. At first, he seemed a bit unsure, used to more complicated toys, but soon he was laughing and experimenting with different ways to arrange the blocks. It was rewarding to see him engage with the blocks and even invite other children to join in. This not only helped him practice sharing but also encouraged patience and teamwork—skills that are just as important as physical or cognitive development.

Introducing baby toys like these blocks is more than just play; it’s about creating a comfortable space where Mitchell can explore new ways of learning. The bright colors and chunky shapes capture his attention, while the tactile experience helps improve his hand-eye coordination. Plus, playing with other kids using these toys helps him build social skills in a low-pressure environment.

I believe that gently easing Mitchell into baby toys is a smart approach. It respects his current abilities while providing opportunities to grow in areas that might need more focus. It also helps him feel included with the other toddlers, who often enjoy these toys and can model sharing and cooperation.

Overall, gifting Mitchell the big chunky blocks was a small step with big potential. It’s about meeting him where he is and supporting his journey—one block at a time.