You know those cold winter days where you stay indoors and the kids start climbing the wall? Well, when that happens to my kids, I tell them to pull out one of our puzzles to play with. It calms them down immediately and their brains start to work hard. I love watching them try the pieces this way and that way until they finally get it right. Once they finish the puzzle, they feel quite accomplished at their hard work. My kids then love to take off their shoes and dance on top of the puzzle! I guess they really feel good about themselves!
Bottom line – it really transforms the atmosphere at home and the added benefit of this activity is that puzzles are well known to help mathematically. Every piece has a slightly different shape which trains the eye to look for detail of color and shape.
Read about 9 benefits of puzzles for children. (http://b-inspiredmama.com/2012/08/benefits-of-puzzles-for-kids/)
1. Puzzles are a Self Correcting Learning Tool
When Children attempt to place a puzzle piece in it’s place it will only fit if it is placed properly in the right space. The act of manipulating each piece, turning it and testing the fit, is the way children learn to problem solve and develop critical thinking. Read more…