It’s no secret that preschool science activities are a hit in my classroom – and for good reason! Preschool engineering activities are always jam-packed with tons of fun and learning! When I was offered a chance to review KORXX blocks, I knew we’d integrate some science into our play. As I predicted, the preschoolers jumped right in and explored the KORXX like the little scientists they are. Child-led, hands-on science at work!
Disclosure – I received a set of KORXX blocks in exchange for my honest review. As always, all of the opinions listed here are 100% mine (well, with some input from the kids, of course)!
I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
We tried out the colorful KORXX Form C Mix, as well as natural cork blocks like this set.
3 preschool science activities using KORXX
Exploration and Engineering
The first thing the children did was open exploration of the blocks. They observed using most of their senses – they made note of the colors and shapes, the natural scent of the blocks, the quiet noises the KORXX made when they fell, and how the texture of the blocks felt on their little fingers. Once those observations were made, it was on to engineering some awesome structures! Because of the unique composition of KORXX, the kiddos were able to create some creations that wouldn’t be possible with regular wooden blocks. They LOVED that!
Homemade Catapult Experiments
My students have been creating homemade catapults in our block center for some time now. Unfortunately, I couldn’t let them do this inside because children would get hurt by the wooden blocks flying through the air. Well, with KORXX, I was able to let the children make catapults inside! The blocks are made of cork, making them lightweight and less likely to hurt children.
Building and Testing Ramps
By far the favorite science activity with KORXX was ramp-making! Again, this is something the children have been exploring for a while now. They were ecstatic to discover the round KORXX blocks went down the ramps faster and easier than a lot of other materials they’d tried.
The different sizes made it easier for them to test their ramps, and they even created some “obstacle courses” on the ends of the ramps. They tested out a variety of ramp angles to determine which let the round KORXX travel farther. This lasted for over an hour, and we only stopped because we had to get on with our day!
More about KORXX blocks
KORXX are made by harvesting cork without harming the trees, making them eco-friendly (it’s even recyclable). They’re lightweight, of course, and very quiet. The high-quality cork used in these blocks is free from harmful substances like phthalates, and they don’t have any other sensory emissions. KORXX has passed safety testing in the United States, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and Japan. There’s a ton more information to check out at the KORXX website!
My thoughts about KORXX
Well, I think it’s pretty obvious that my preschool kiddos love the KORXX blocks. We’ve used them for a ton of other activities beyond what’s shared here. As for me, I’m loving them so far! They’re available in both colors and natural, and I think both options appeal to the kids. I like that they’re made in a sustainable way, and the mama bear in me is happy with all of the safety testing. More than anything, though, is how engaging they are for my students. They allow for hours and hours of open-ended playful learning, and they can be used in both child-led and teacher-directed lessons. On top of that, they’re QUIET! 🙂
More playful learning ideas using KORXX
Math with KORXX: Sorting Cork Blocks by Different Attributes from Still Playing School
More or Less Preschool Math Game with KORXX from Where Imagination Grows
KORXX Blocks Printable 3D Tangrams Cards from Lalymom
Developmental Toddler Block Play with KORXX from Lemon Lime Adventures
Cooperative Sibling Play with KORXX Blocks from House of Burke
Hands-On Science Materials
Everyone learns differently. But young children seem to be more interested in learning when they are able to connect with the subject. And that’s where hands-on science activities come in! I find that letting children get involved in learning gets them excited to explore science more often. With that in mind, you might want to keep your classroom stocked with some great science materials.
Check out this list and decide which items will work well in your classroom (I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post):
- Science magnet kit
- Magnifying glass set
- Kid-friendly tongs
- Jumbo eye droppers
- Sensory tubes
- Safety goggles
- Pipettes
- Science mix and measure set
- Sensory bottles
- Sensory bins
- Butterfly net set
The children are going to absolutely love learning about these science tools. And I know they’ll love getting to use them even more!
What are your go-to hands on science materials in the classroom? Let us know in the comments below!
Done-for-You Preschool Resources
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