Soft Shapes Giant Shaped Puzzle: Best Friends

By innovative kids
Price $24.99
Age 3+

It's been a long time since we said, 'Wow!' about a puzzle, but this one earns that exclamation in so many ways. The packaging alone (a nifty, see-through paint-can-style bucket for easy travel and storage) is entertaining enough to want to have around the house. But the real prize is the puzzle itself, geared towards young puzzlers. The 24 large, chunky pieces are made of highly durable waterproof soft foam, so take it to the pool, the beach, or just play with it around the house without worrying about spills or damage. Another thing we really liked is the way this puzzle balances simplicity with challenge. Some early-age puzzles are just too easy. A puzzle, at any age, should stimulate thought and exploration. This one does so beautifully, using strategically placed splashes of color and shape to provide clues as to where pieces should go. By comparing the work-in-progress to the completed illustration on the package, kids assemble the puzzle while being thoroughly stimulated and entertained. When finished, they display genuine excitement and a sense of accomplishment. And then they take it apart and do it all over again.