Encourage children to make recreations of different types of traditional Native American homes in the block center. Children can use the blocks to build the igloos that the Inuit tribe live in. They can try to build models of the wigwams of the Algonquin tribe. Place sheets in the center and have children use them, along with blocks, to construct a model of the Plains Indians teepees. They could also try to build longhouses, the homes of the Iroquois tribe. Perhaps set out pictures of these types of homes that children can use as references when attempting to build them.
The block center is an ideal place for children to build replicas of the totem poles of Pacific Northwest tribes. After discussing the significance of totem poles, show children pictures that illustrate the structures. Encourage them to use the blocks in the block center to build their own totem poles. Provide them with paper plates to draw animal faces on, which they can tape to the structures they build to make them look more lifelike.
Boats were vital to the various Native American tribes, as they allowed them to hunt, explore and transport goods. Have your students use blocks to build renditions of different Native American boats. Talk about the different types of boats and then have children try to build them with blocks. Types of boats you may consider talking about include the kayak, umiak, dugout canoes and back canoes.
Fire was a very important element to the Native Americans. They built fire pits to cook food, to keep warm, for protection and they were a central element in fire ceremonies. Have your children build a pretend fire pit in the block center. Encourage them to build a circular formation out of blocks on the floor and perhaps they can use more blocks to serve as pretend firewood. Offer them orange and red crepe paper, which they can put in the fire pit to resemble flames and embers.