Elastomeric block system for multi-modal play

Abstract

A system or kit using elastomeric blocks for self-directed, multi-modal play is described herein. In a first example, the kit includes at least one geometric block made out of an elastomeric material with at least one hole and a faceted geometry. Variations in size, shape, and number of the at least one hole may change the performance of the kit when in use. In another example, the kit includes at least one elastomeric block with at least one hole and at least one connecting post. The at least one connecting post connects to at least one elastomeric block by being inserted into at least one hole in the block; the elastomeric material of the block clutches the connecting post. The properties of the kit enable multiple modes of play beyond simple stacking and construction, allowing the depth and complexity of play to mature and adapt to any age and ability.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A kit for playing, the kit comprising:
 at least one elastomeric block, wherein the at least one elastomeric block has at least one hole; and   at least one connecting post;   wherein the at least one connecting post is inserted into the at least one hole of the at least one elastomeric block to connect to the at least one elastomeric block.   
     
     
         2 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting post is comprised of a rigid material. 
     
     
         3 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block has multiple holes. 
     
     
         4 . The kit of  claim 3 , wherein the multiple holes of the at least one elastomeric block intersect. 
     
     
         5 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block has variable wall thickness to change a spring constant. 
     
     
         6 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block flexes to conform to the at least one connecting post. 
     
     
         7 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block grips the at least one connecting post when it is inserted into the at least one hole. 
     
     
         8 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block is a cube shape. 
     
     
         9 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block is a non-cube shape. 
     
     
         10 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block has at least one pocket. 
     
     
         11 . The kit of  claim 10 , wherein the at least one pocket has a constant diameter. 
     
     
         12 . The kit of  claim 10 , wherein the at least one pocket has a flat bottom. 
     
     
         13 . The kit of  claim 10 , wherein the at least one pocket has a flap. 
     
     
         14 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting post is round. 
     
     
         15 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting post is rectangular. 
     
     
         16 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting post is curved. 
     
     
         17 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting post is an assembly of multiple parts. 
     
     
         18 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block includes a faceted surface. 
     
     
         19 . The kit of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one elastomeric block and the at least one connecting post include electronics. 
     
     
         20 . A kit for sensory playing, the kit comprising:
 at least one elastomeric block, wherein the at least one elastomeric block has at least one hole and a faceted surface.