Maths
Making puzzles
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Manipulative play, such as working with puzzles, provides children with opportunities to work with different shapes and colours. It also encourages children to solve problems, classify, sort and develop spatial concepts. Experiences like these can enhance the development of fine motor skills in the wrists, hands and fingers as well as eye-hand coordination.
Te Whāriki curriculum link
Contribution goal 2:
Children experience an environment where they are affirmed as individuals
You and your children can easily make your own puzzles.
You will need:
- a good clear picture with an interesting subject that children will enjoy.
Choose an image with clear definite outlines such as square or rectangle shaped pictures - strong glue like PVA
- thick cardboard
- something sharp like a craft knife to cut the finished product with
Making a Puzzle:
Paste the picture to the cardboard and remove any air bubbles and leave to dry. You can cover the puzzle with cover seal to protect it.
Cutting out
- begin by cutting the puzzle into just a few pieces – if it is too easy you can cut it into smaller pieces.
- cutting around objects such as trees, vehicles, houses etc makes the puzzle easier initially.
- avoid cutting shapes that break easily if possible (such as tails on animals).