Shapes and puzzles

Simple puzzles and collections of shapes are very good training in quick identification and arrangement both very necessary when learning words and numbers.

The child in the picture is using colored cardboard shapes with which he can make both abstract patterns and actual pictures. The card is from cereal packets and Father has marked out the shapes so that they are accurately proportionate to each other; that is, four small squares to make one large one, or four triangles or two oblongs to make the same size square. There are circles, large and small, cut into halves or quarters so that two or four of the same shape and color fit together. If the card is sufficiently thin it can be cut as well as painted by a child of four.

It is possible to buy puzzles which are graded according to a child’s ability. Puzzles of twenty or so pieces are usually suitable for a four-Year-old child.

Care should be taken over choosing puzzles. Any which are too difficult and baffle a child may result in complete loss of interest. The right puzzles must stimulate a feeling of success, even quick success. Children need this kind of gratification as encouragement to further effort.