Space Connectors 160pc

In the box
• 160 Pieces of assorted shapes
• 1 Model guide booklet

Playing with space connectors develops a wide array of skills related to the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), physical coordination, and social-emotional growth.

Space connectors are also a great stress reliever for adults.

STEM and cognitive skills

• Spatial reasoning: Children build structures in three dimensions, which helps them learn how objects fit together, develop spatial awareness, and practice skills like mental rotation. This ability to visualize and manipulate objects in one's mind is a predictor of future success in STEM subjects.
• Problem-solving: As children construct designs, they must figure out how to balance and connect pieces so their creations are stable. This gives them immediate feedback and the opportunity to experiment and self-correct with minimal guidance.
• Engineering and design: Space connectors encourage children to think like engineers by planning, creating, and testing structures like towers, bridges, and other designs. They learn about basic concepts of stability, balance, and cause and effect.
• Creativity and imagination: These toys are open-ended, allowing children to build anything they can imagine, from a rocket ship to an animal. This freedom encourages divergent thinking and expands their imaginative play.
• Early math and geometry: By sorting and connecting the pieces, children gain an understanding of shapes, counting, patterns, and geometric concepts. They can also learn measurement by comparing sizes and lengths. 

Physical and motor skills

• Fine motor skills: Grasping, snapping, and connecting the small pieces strengthens the muscles in a child's hands and fingers. This improved dexterity and hand-eye coordination is crucial for writing and drawing later on.
• Gross motor skills: When building larger structures like forts or tunnels, children get to move their bodies around, which helps develop their gross motor skills.
• Bilateral coordination: Constructing with two hands at once, with one holding and the other connecting, strengthens a child's ability to use both sides of their body in a coordinated way.

Social and emotional skills

• Collaboration and communication: When children play together, they must share materials, communicate their ideas, and compromise to bring their collective vision to life. This promotes teamwork, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Persistence and resilience: Not every design is a success on the first attempt. When a structure collapses, children learn patience and perseverance by trying again. This teaches them that setbacks are opportunities to improve.
• Self-confidence: Seeing their creative ideas become a physical reality helps children build self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.