Build it higher challenge
3–4 yearsSuccess MindsetMaterials: Blocks, cardboard boxes, or cushions
Work together to build a tower from blocks, boxes, or pillows. After the first attempt, talk about what happened and try again with a new strategy. Focus on how trying different approaches helps you learn and get better.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
Work together to build a tower from blocks, boxes, or pillows. After the first attempt, talk about what happened and try again with a new strategy. Focus on how trying different approaches helps you learn and get better.
Why It Works
Children who learn that effort and strategy lead to improvement show greater resilience after setbacks and actively seek challenging tasks. This activity teaches your child that trying different approaches is how we learn and grow, not that success comes from being naturally talented. By discussing strategies and celebrating effort, you help your child develop beliefs that abilities improve with practice.
(Blackwell, L. S., Trzesniewski, K. H., & Dweck, C. S. (2007). Implicit theories of intelligence predict achievement across an adolescent transition: A longitudinal study and an intervention. Child Development, 78(1), 246-263.)
Tips for Parents
When the tower falls, say 'Let's figure out what we can try differently' instead of focusing on the failure. Notice and name the strategies your child uses, like 'You're putting the bigger blocks on the bottom now.'
Celebrate the effort and problem-solving, not just the final height. If your child gets frustrated, share a time when you had to practice something to get better at it.
Materials Needed
Blocks, cardboard boxes, or cushions
Learning Methods
Inquiry-Based LearningStructured Learning ActivitiesProject-Based Learning
Loved this activity? Let us do the planning for you.
Imprint personalizes every activity to your child — their interests, their stage, the traits they're building — so playtime is more fun and every moment counts.
Science-backed. Private by design. No spam.