In the 1830s, German educator Friedrich Froebel developed a system of play for children using a series of educational toys he referred to as "gifts." Several of these gifts consist of geometrically shaped wood blocks which children use to build and design. Frank Lloyd Wright played with Froebel Blocks, and acknowledged them as a fundamental influence on his architecture.

Monona Terrace will visit Dane County classrooms and facilitate workshops for 3rd through 5th grade students. Each student works with a gift and a structured set of exercises. Through guided play, children are introduced to basic geometric and mathematical concepts. The activities invite cause and effect thinking, concentration, problem solving and creativity. The workshop is designed to complement a class trip to Monona Terrace. For more information, contact Heather Sabin at 608.261.4015 or hsabin@mononaterrace.com.