Friedrich Froebel, the father of kindergarten, designed educational play materials called ‘gifts’.
These gifts are basic play items like balls, cubes, and sticks that help children explore shapes, patterns, and movement.
While the first seven items are known as ‘gifts’, the remaining items in his system are referred to as ‘occupations’ or ‘materials for exercise’.
These materials involve activities like folding, cutting, and weaving which build fine motor skills and creativity.
Together, Froebel’s gifts and materials for exercise create a complete system for child development through play and hands-on work.