Puzzles – Playgroup

Puzzles are an easy and fun playgroup activity for all ages. Storing complete puzzles in a clear document wallet or puzzle bag is a good way to ensure pieces stay together and the fun lasts.

Did you know?

Because puzzles can be adapted for various ages and abilities, they are a wonderful activity to promote participation and inclusion. Children can complete their own puzzles next to each other, or join in and help others and work together.

Add language

At the puzzle table or area, make comments and ask occasional questions about their puzzles. Children can develop their reasoning together and add to each other’s responses.

Other development

Puzzles at playgroup are a perfect opportunity for children to practice sharing, taking turns and waiting – important skills that will help them later at school.

It’s a good idea to set up puzzles in a quiet area at playgroup. Children can move away from more noisy areas and have some quiet time when they need it, and a quieter area will help with their concentration. This also helps to teach self-regulation strategies.

Variations

Making puzzles can be a great activity at playgroup. Children can paint or draw on cardboard or paper to make their own puzzles to take home, or children can make one giant puzzle for the group that all children can help put together.

Safety

Always supervise children around scissors and ensure there are no small or loose items that could be a choking hazard for babies.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how puzzles can be fun for babies, toddlers and children.

Activities listed under “playgroup” are suitable for groups of children of various ages. They provide opportunities for early learning and social play.