The INF Kits are our smallest kits, but at 3
children aren't really ready to build very sophisticated things. At
this age, children inspect the individual pieces, ponder the shapes and
fit them together, and like to show them to other people or bang them
together. What is important is for children to learn some of the names
of the shapes, and eventually, to learn to stack one piece on top
another (an important milestone). This set will be adequate until a
child is about 18 months, but after that will need to be supplemented by
more pieces. It is satisfying to spend time with your children,
showing them what to do with the blocks, and enjoying their progress in
coordination. If there are particular shapes that you would like to
add, you can find these on the "Open Stock" page. Our blocks are
completely unfinished. They are too large to pose a choking hazard and
are laboratory tested to satisfy the CPSC rules for children over the
age of three. The blocks are sanded maple, and children can gum them
without fear of chemical finishes or oils. Germs are another matter.
Parents will be wise to keep them away from dogs as they enjoy chewing
them. They may be cleaned with a damp sponge or sanded with a fine
sandpaper, but they shouldn't be allowed to soak as they will absorb
water.