Stack 7 blocks

What is the goal of this program?

Able to get different size of blocks and stack them up  (7 blocks) independently 

Why is this program important?

Helps with: 

• Enhancing the ability of pincer grip, which prepare for writing and drawing 
• Enhancing fine motor skills and prepare for doing complex actions like twisting, pulling, poking  

How can this be taught?

To teach the child to stack blocks, select a blocks that is large enough for your child to grip. To teach your child to stack a sequence of different size, start from the bottom and slowly work your way to the top. Meaning the parents will teach the child to stack block 6 on top of block 7, then add block 5, block 4, block 3, block 2 and block 1.  

Using backward chaining, the parent will guide the child to stack the first 6 blocks, leaving the last block for the child to stack independently. With each successful attempt, parents can begin fading the second last of the step until the child is able to complete the whole sequence by him/herself 

In Phase 1, tell your child “Let’s stack blocks!” and physically guide your child to stack block 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 on top of each other. Then, let your child stack  block 1 independently. When your child does it, praise him/her for stacking independently.   

In Phase 2, tell your child “Let’s stack!” and physically guide your child to stack block 7, 6, 5, 4 and 3. Then, let your child stack block 2 and block 1 independently. Remember to praise the child to stacking independently. 

In Phase 3, tell them “Stack up blocks!” and physically guide your child to stack block 7, 6, 5 and 4. Then, let your child stack block 3, block 2 and block 1 independently. Praise your child when they did it correctly. 

In Phase 4, say “let’s stack!” and physically guide your child to stack block 7, 6, and 5. Then, let your child stack block 4, block 3, block 2 and block 1 independently. Praise your child if they stacked up the blocks independently.  

In Phase 5, tell them “Stack up blocks” and physically guide your child to stack block 7 and 6. Then, let your child stack block 5, block 4, block 3, block 2 and block 1 independently. Praise them if they’re done correctly.  

Finally, in Phase 6, tell your child “Let’s stack up blocks” and physically place block 7 on the table. Then, let your child stack block 6, block 5, block 4, block 3, block 2 and block 1 independently. Praise your child if they did it independently! 

Suggested toys and materials 

Stackable toys such as Rings in a Cone, Marble Run, Jumbo Lego, Wooden Blocks would be useful for the child to practice their fine motor skills in stacking. For target practice, select a 7 piece stackable wooden/plastic block that the child likes. 

Related programs 

Sticking stickers / tokens on a target position 

Troubleshooting / Prerequisite skills 

• Place large objects inside open container
• Place small objects inside open container