Stapelstein

Stapelstein: stacking, moving and inventing your own games

Stapelstein consists of lightweight, colourful play elements that children can use to build, balance, sort and play. There is no single way to use them. A stone can be a step in an obstacle course, a seat or, turned upside down, a bowl for collecting things. This makes Stapelstein open-ended play equipment: children decide what the pieces represent and how their game develops.

The material: lightweight, sturdy EPP

The play elements are made from EPP, or expanded polypropylene. This plastic foam has a firm structure and weighs very little. A Stapelstein Original, for example, weighs around 180 grams, allowing children to move and stack the stones themselves.

The material absorbs very little water and its insulating properties mean it does not readily feel cold. The Original, Board and Inside elements are made in Germany. EPP is recyclable; local collection options vary.

The differences between Original, Mini, Grow and Inside

The pieces differ in more than colour. Their size and shape also influence how they are used.

• Original. This is the familiar round stacking stone. Children might use it to make a stepping path, build a tower or sort colours. The stones are available individually and in sets.
• Original Mini. This is the smaller version. Its compact size lends itself to building, filling and moving pieces by hand, during play on the floor or at a table.
• Original Grow. This is a much larger play element. With a diameter of approximately 57.6 centimetres and a height of 24.3 centimetres, it takes up more space than the Original. Turned upside down, it becomes a large bowl.
• Balance Board. This is a round balance board with a raised rim. It can be used on its own or combined with the Original stones.
• Inside. These elements come in different sizes that nest inside each other. Children can explore big and small, hide pieces, fill them and create different layers.
• Base. This forms a base for seating and movement arrangements and can be combined with the stones and balance board.

There are also combined sets, such as the Water Play Set with play elements and drumsticks. A storage bag keeps loose pieces together; the Play game book offers ideas for new ways to play.

Colours, pastels and Specials

Alongside the different sizes, there are various colour editions. Rainbow sets combine several colours, while pastel editions use softer shades. Specials are particular colour editions or combinations of elements. The name Special alone does not mean that a piece is a different size. The product name and the contents of the set determine that.

Different ways to play with the same stones

A simple stepping path starts with a few Originals placed on the floor. Changing the distance between the stones changes the movement needed. Turned upside down, the stones can become containers for a sorting game. With Mini and Inside, play shifts towards filling, fitting and building.

Not every game needs to become an exercise. Children can also discover for themselves what happens when they turn a piece over, choose a different sequence or build something together.

Indoors, outdoors and cleaning

The EPP elements can be used indoors and outdoors. They may slide on a smooth floor; a suitable surface provides more grip. After wet play, let the pieces dry separately before putting them away.

Water, mild soap and a soft cloth are sufficient for cleaning. Sharp objects can damage the material.

Frequently asked questions