Sports Block: Medium
A bamboo sports block, 15 x 8 x 4 cm, the medium size. One block is already three exercises: something to balance on, a spot on the floor that marks where to stand, and, set beside the Montessori football, a target to aim a kick at. Several blocks together become a course the child can make harder without asking anyone, which is the real reason to own more than one. The football and the other block sizes are separate items.
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'”
The Sports Block addresses the fundamental need for movement education in the Montessori classroom, where physical development forms the foundation for cognitive growth.
- Develops core strength through supported balance poses and weight-bearing activities
- Builds proprioceptive awareness as children position their bodies relative to the block
- Enhances bilateral coordination through movements that cross the body's midline
- Strengthens concentration through holding poses and maintaining balance
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This medium-sized bamboo block serves as a concrete tool for children to explore their body's capabilities through structured movement exercises. The smooth, polished bamboo surface invites touch and provides stable support as children discover balance points and test their physical limits. Unlike adult exercise equipment, this child-sized block respects the proportions of young bodies, allowing authentic exploration of yoga poses and balance activities. The Sports Block transforms abstract concepts of body awareness into tangible experiences - a child feeling the block beneath their hands during a modified plank discovers core strength through direct sensory feedback. In Montessori education, gross motor development through purposeful movement creates neural pathways essential for later academic learning, and this bamboo block provides the perfect intermediary between the child's will to move and their developing physical coordination.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the Sports Block on a movement mat in an open area. Ensure at least arm's length of clear space on all sides. Have children remove shoes and bulky clothing that might restrict movement.
- 1
Begin with simple sitting on the block, feet flat on floor, hands on knees. Hold for 10 breaths.
Count breaths aloud initially to help children develop rhythm - 2
Progress to kneeling beside the block, placing both hands flat on top. Slowly straighten one leg behind.
Demonstrate how to keep the bamboo surface centered under palms - 3
Introduce standing poses: step one foot onto the block, arms out for balance, hold for 5 counts.
Start with the block turned to its lowest height setting - 4
Create movement sequences: step up, step down, walk around the block, repeat.
Add rhythmic counting or soft music to support flow
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Brands used by
schools worldwide
European brands
AMI
Endorsed
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