Puzzles are a great way for toddlers to learn and develop their skills through play. As early as around 18 months of age, children can start with simple shape puzzles.
This first introduction to puzzles not only offers a lot of fun, but also contributes to their cognitive and motor development.
For toddlers aged 18 to 24 months, shape puzzles with large, sturdy pieces are ideal. These puzzles help them recognise and sort basic shapes and colours, while improving their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
The success of placing a puzzle piece in the right place gives them a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. As a parent or carer, you then do well to compliment the child.
Between the ages of 2 and 3, children can start working on slightly more complex puzzles, such as those with more pieces and different shapes.
These puzzles encourage their problem-solving skills and patience, and promote their spatial understanding.
They learn to observe, compare and make logical connections, which are important skills for their further development.
From 3 years, toddlers can handle even more challenging puzzles, with smaller pieces and more detailed pictures.
These types of puzzles promote not only their concentration and perseverance, but also their language skills, especially when the puzzles have themes such as animals, vehicles or the alphabet.
Puzzling is not only a fun and educational activity, but also a great way to spend quality time with your child.
Puzzling together strengthens the bond between parent and child. It provides an opportunity to learn and grow together.
It is an activity that helps children discover and understand their world step by step, while enjoying the process of learning through play.