Rainbow blocks are a “specialty” kind of block. They fit perfectly with unit blocks, since their size if built off of the unit. However, they bring a whole new dimension to unit block play.

What they are

These blocks are made by Guidecraft, USA. At this point, I haven’t seen any other manufacturer making them. There are 4 different series of Rainbow Block. The standard set, shimmering water, sand, and crystal beads. The frames on these are made of a hard wood called rubberwood, and have acrylic windows.

So what’s so special about them?

On the surface, it doesn’t seem like a big deal. however, once you start watching children play with these colorful wooden blocks, you will “get it” instantly! Kids use these to transform block play structures that look like bunkers into colorful cathedrals, interstellar space stations, or any other architectural masterpieces thier little brains can come up with. It is amazing to watch how the buildings are transformed, and the enjoyment the kids get from building with these blocks as accents.

Which sets I like best, and why

What you’re about to read is a good dose of opinion and a little bit of observation from a small set of children - my three.

I definitely like the standard rainbow blocks the best. They have colored acrylic windows that are red, yellow, green and blue and come in a set of 14 or a set of 42. Basically the kids love them, and these are the ones they choose first. The rest of the sets have clear acrylic windows and are about 1/2 full of other stuff. The shimmering water blocks are my second favorite. These have colored water with glitter suspended in it between the two windows. It’s pretty cool, and the kids like it. Next on the list is the Sand Rainbow Blocks. These are 1/2 full of colored sand. I’ve found my son tipping the block back and forth to shift the sand from one end to the other. Kept him mesmerized for a bit. Last but not least is the Crystal Bead Rainbow Blocks. These pull of the rear mostly because they make an annoying ticking sound when you shake them. I always get the feeling of “that’s it?” from them when we use them in block structures.

All in all, Rainbow Unit Blocks can add a whole lot to how children play with their block sets. Get a set, and you can freshen up your unit block set and give it that new toy feel again! The kids love them, and you will see them begin to use their blocks in a whole new way.

So where can you get them? Try these links:

• Deluxe Rainbow Unit Block Set
• Rainbow Unit Blocks Set of 14
• Rainbow Unit Blocks - Shimmering Water
• Rainbow Unit Blocks - Sand
• Rainbow Unit Blocks Crystal Beads

|