Batik for Kids

Batik for Kids

I'm always attracted to underwater themed activities. Batik is not similar to any other game that I have. The goal of Batik is to force your opponent to be the first person to play a piece that sticks out the top of the aquarium. 

The pieces are lightweight wood about 1/8" thick. Each player has a set of the exact same creatures, just different colors. As you can see in the image above the creatures are all different shapes and sizes, meaning you will have to use the available space wisely. Should you play the biggest creatures first and save the small for the top? Or start with the odd shaped creatures that may need more room because of their unique shapes?

Colors of sea creatures may vary as mine are blue and green and the ones in the picture are yellow and orange. I have used this game with people of all skill levels.  Even those who don't understand the rules have enjoyed picking up, reaching and placing the pieces in the aquarium through the narrow slot at the top.

Object:
Force your opponent to be the first to place a piece that will stick out the top of the aquarium.

Set up:
To play, stand the aquarium between the players. Each player takes one set of sea creatures (one color).

Play:
Taking turns, place one piece at a time through the narrow slot at the top of the aquarium until someone is forced to place a piece that sticks out the top. That player has lost.  

Try this:

• Play a game alone.  See how many pieces you can get in. Play again and try to beat your own score.
• Choose the piece that your opponent will play each time and let him choose yours. 
• Sort by color or type of animal.
• Place all pieces on the table and ask the individual to scan through to find each piece you ask for, such as the yellow shark, the orange starfish, the yellow crab, etc. Place pieces in different orientations for a more difficult game.
• Place one set of animals on the table and the other set in a bag that you cannot see through (or use Ned's Head). As the individual to put his hand in and feel a piece. Look at the pieces on the table top to help you recognize what you are feeling. Call the animal type before pulling it out to check.
• Work on spatial relations, eye-hand coordination, visual discrimination, manual dexterity, executive functioning skills, process skills, socialization skills, play and leisure exploration and participation

 In the box: 2 matching sets in 2 different colors of sea creatures, Aquarium (wooden sides, plastic walls, opening across top and bottom)
 
If you are interested in purchasing this game or just want more information, click on the image below.