Play and Learn: Educational Puzzles 'n' Fun

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Taken from Chickadee magazine’s “Puzzles ’n’ Fun” section over
the past 20 years and previously compiled in two publications in 1992
and 1995, these activities are appropriate for 5-to–9-year-olds. This
consumable book has mazes, matchups, and other independent pencil games
to complete on the page, as well as suggestions for group games. All
activities are educational in nature, and an index of skills (such as
math readiness, visual identification) is included at the back. The
activities have been arranged by season to provide year-round amusement.
The full-color illustrations are attractive and whimsical, embellished
by the cartoon chickadees familiar to the magazine’s readers, and the
overall design is inviting. The puzzles are entertaining as well as
educational and children will be eager to solve them. The paper and
binding are much sturdier than usually found in a consumable workbook,
which undoubtedly contributes to the book’s price, which is higher
than that of most workbooks for young children. Recommended for home
use.