Puzzles and Games for Kids

A puzzle asks a child to look carefully, compare shapes and try again when a piece does not fit. That builds spatial thinking, attention and perseverance. Logic games add rules and planning: what happens if I move this piece first? Skill games train fine motor control and calm hands. Family games also teach something just as important: taking turns, losing gracefully and celebrating together.

• From 18 months. A wooden balance puzzle with twelve chunky farm animals to stack, and 7-in-1 sensory blocks with shapes, sounds and textures. See more in puzzles for kids.
• From 3 years. A magnetic farm puzzle box with 61 pieces for building farm scenes, a 60-in-1 logic games set with tasks from easy to tricky, a 3D maze ball and the Crazy Doctor skill game. More in board and logic games and skill and arcade games.

Shopping for a specific age? See toys for 1–2 year olds and toys for 3–5 year olds.

For the youngest, choose large pieces that are easy to grip and a clear picture: animals, vehicles or simple shapes. Wooden puzzles suit small hands because they are sturdy and do not bend. From around 3, children can manage more pieces and magnetic or multi-part puzzles. Pick a level that is slightly challenging but not frustrating. If your child gives up quickly, go one step easier; if they finish in seconds, it is time for the next level.

Several games in this collection fit into a bag. The 3D maze ball and the 60-in-1 logic set are good for car trips, waiting rooms and visits, and the magnetic puzzle box keeps its pieces together. At home, a family game evening once a week is an easy habit that gives children time with parents without screens.

Wooden puzzles are durable, pleasant to touch and often follow the Montessori approach: one clear task and a built-in way to check the answer. You will find more in wooden toys and Montessori toys. For sorting shapes and colours, see shape sorters and shape puzzles.