How a Block Helped Revolutionize Education
It started with a radical idea: trust children to learn by doing. In the early 1900s, Caroline Pratt introduced Unit Blocks—wooden blocks in standard sizes that sparked hands-on, creative play. These blocks weren't just toys; they were tools for children to build their understanding of the world—and naturally develop math, literacy, problem-solving, and teamwork skills along the way.
Pratt's real innovation was her belief that children learn best when they're actively engaged. By founding City and Country School, she turned classrooms into laboratories of curiosity and innovation, where teachers guided rather than dictated. Her approach flipped the script on traditional education, making learning an adventure instead of a chore.
This philosophy laid the foundation for the progressive education movement—and its relevance has only grown. In the 2024-25 school year alone, more than 100 educators from four continents visited C&C to learn our approach.
Pratt’s innovative spirit continues today. Join us for an event to see how.
