block building platform

[Andrea]

where can i purchase a platform that children can build on?

i have seen ones where the children build structures and the platform allows their work to not be disturbed.

andrea

[Jackie]

Andrea,

I have seen many different variations of these platforms at Reggio-Inspired schools here in California. All of the teachers that I have asked about them say that either they built them or a parent did. I have never seen any commercially available. What I used in the classroom were large, very old fashioned and sturdy end tables. They were the kind with the bottom table and a shelf rising above that covered half. I took the tops off and had two very durable building, standing, and whatever else surfaces. I think your best bet on getting a surface for your room is to build your own!

[Barbara Busse Morgan]

OR...cut the legs off a really sturdy table in the size and shape that best fits your area. Mine is about 10-12" high, about 4' x 3'. It started out tall with chipped dark blue paint and not very sturdy. After cutting it down, painting it white and purchasing a rolling drawer to hide beneath it...it has been a block table with blocks stored in the drawer, a Creation Station with turn tables for art covered tin cans of various heights, a stage with dramatic play clothing in the rolling drawer beneath, and "mountain" for Splash, our therapy dog to recline on for his brushings! This platform table is a real work horse in our room.

[Marianne Cane]

Wonderful idea!

[Evelyn]

I found a solid wooden table at a Salvation Army. We cut off the legs, sanded down the top and refinished it. It makes a wonderful table for building on. I find that newer tables are not as sturdy.

[Gina]

I built one last year for around $25. I bought some 2x4s and a sheet of MDF at Home Depot. The MDF was the size I wanted the platform so I didn't have to cut it. It worked great until our licensing rep came in and didn't like it. She said if the children pooped on it (what???) it would be contaminated and there would be no way to disinfect it since it was made of porous material. So our maintenance man took it home to apply sealer to it but he still has it. When he returns it I will post a picture. The only recommendation I would have would be to make sure you provide a way to move it such as attaching handles or strap on the sides or notching out the bottom edge. We had a hard time picking it back up once we putit on the floor.

[Abbey Daniels]

their is one present in our kindergarten room at the moment ... it is great...need space to have one