Melissa And Doug Cardboard Blocks By Amy Nil on - Updated Oct 15, 2011
When I was a little girl, I used to have a doctor that worked out of his home. I have the fondest memories of getting there early and being able to play with the life-size cardboard blocks. When I saw them in our local craft store, I grabbed one of our 50% off one item coupons (available at least once a month). I was able to grab the 40 piece set for $15 - quite honestly, I would recommend them even if you had to pay more!
The manufacturer recommended age for these blocks are 2 years and up, but my son had a ton of fun of them even when he was a little over a year old. The 40-piece set is made up of 8 large red blocks, 8 medium blue blocks, and 24 small yellow blocks. Because of the way the blocks are assembled, they are extremely tough - more than you might think for cardboard! My son has stood on them quite a few times without anything happening. He did end up chewing the corners on some of them when he was still teething, but they can still be used for building. It's also nice that they are pretty light - when he used to throw things, no damage was done (but time-out was enforced!).
As far as having a toy that lasts awhile - these blocks are tried and true. I would say that my son plays with them at least 4-5 days a week, and sometimes for periods close to an hour. We've learned our primary colors using these blocks, and are making progress with counting/numbers as well. We've built towers to the ceiling, a bowling alley, and all sorts of things!
The only disadvantage to these blocks is that they do take up some space, which may be a concern if you have a small house like ours. I ended up using a rubbermaid bin for storage, and it has worked well. Even though they take up more space than any other toys, I would never think about getting rid of them.
These are one of those simple, relatively inexpensive toys that every kid should have. I would highly recommend them!
About The Author:
Melissa and Doug 40pc Cardboard Block Set Purchased at: AC Moore Price: $15
I remember these as well... would love to get some for my son too.
Kudos on scoring some awesome blocks for just $15! Building blocks have so many uses and are one of those toys that are great for imagination, education, eye/hand coordination and just plain fun! I hope that your child gets years of use out of them!
Gosh, I played with these in kindergarten myself. Nice to know they are still around. Everyone loves them!
I almost brought these for my son when he was a toddler, but I was worried about the space. They are fun blocks though if you have the room
Nothing seems to attract children like simple toys. These sound like one of those kinds of toys.
Melissa and Doug products are so cute! I haven't seen these blocks before but they sound great! Great for learning colors and sizes, etc.
I LOVE Melissa and Doug puzzles but have never seen these...I bet that ARE great :0)
I've been trying to recall if I remember anything about cardboard blocks. Thanks for making me think about them, I must go see.
I didn't realize they still made these!! I used to play with these for hours! I hope your son continues to love playing with them!
sounds like a great b-day present for my niece!