UnBlock is an interactive toy that encourages spontaneous play with a canvas, timer, and a set of open-ended prompts. Creative play is an effective means to promote well-being. However, people often find it difficult to enjoy it because of some barriers such as a lack of motivation, time, and limited resources. Unblock is designed to reduce barriers to initiating creative play and to help the user concentrate and reflect on the enjoyment of the play experience.

When the user lifts the block, a simple written prompt such as “hide” and “secret dance” appears for five minutes. The edges illuminate and then begin to slowly dim over 5 minutes, serving as a visual timer. During this time, the user may write, draw, or perform some improvised act inspired by the prompt. Using a chalk marker, the block itself becomes a canvas, which can serve as a visual reminder of the experience later. With an insignificant time-commitment and simple interface, the positive experiences can be stimulated and reflected upon for a longer period of time. UnBlock would fit well within coffee shops, waiting rooms, or educational settings. Many blocks could exist in a single space, or only one through which a variety of activities may emerge, with some affording group collaboration.