Laurie Jumbo US Puzzle...gets the homeschooling mom stamp of approval
Written: Feb 18 '09
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Pros: piece for each state; rubberized - durable; can replace lost/missing pieces
Cons: nothing
The Bottom Line: Durable puzzle with pieces that can be replaced. A piece for each state! Great learning toy!
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| LRGuis's Full Review: Lauri, Jumbo United States Puzzle by Lauri Toys |
Learning the position of the states within the United States does not have to be all about rote memorization and reproduced pieces of paper. Sometimes, the learning can be done with bright colors and some form of entertainment. Lauri crepe puzzles are made of a crepe rubber material – each piece does not permanently fold over or crease like cardboard-type puzzle pieces are wont to do. Each piece fits snugly next to its neighbor, are easy to grip for smaller users, and perhaps the best part of all: replacement pieces are available direct from Lauri should a piece be lost.
This specific puzzle is a learning aid for United States geography. Beyond being superior to other alternatives because of the Lauri pieces, a couple notables are worth mentioning:
- there is a piece for EACH state….no states have been combined with their neighbor regardless of size
- therefore, each state is size accurate…Delaware is what it is (small) & Texas would be opposite (large)
- the base, when empty, shows the name of each state with its capital
Size: Rubberized base is approximately 11.5” x 17”. Each piece is thicker than average, just under ½” thick.
Because of some of the smaller sized pieces, this one should be utilized only with children for whom swallowing non-food items is no longer an issue.
This is a great addition to a home full of students & not your typical puzzle. While basic, cutesy puzzles may belong in preschool, this one can be utilized in older elementary grades as it is practical and a true learning aid. For kids who can get the capitals memorized, but still couldn’t place the location of a state on a blank US map, this one is a winner. (Ditto for adults who can’t do the same!)
You’ll find this one at some online retailers and at many stores geared toward educators.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 16.95
Type of Toy: Puzzle
Age Range of Child: 6 to 8 Years
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LRGuis
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