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Children learn through play. As an occupational therapist who works with children and youth, I use games and toys almost every day to help develop important cognitive, visual perceptual, motor, sensory, social, play and leisure skills. While many different types of activities can be used in therapy, this blog focuses on off-the-shelf games and toys that are accessible to most. Whether you are a therapist, parent, teacher, or a game lover like me, I hope you discover something useful while you are here. Learn a different way to play a game you already own or discover a new game for your next family game night. Either way, just go play. It's good for you!

The OT Magazine named The Playful Otter one of the Top 5 Pediatric OT Blogs.


Aug 5, 2016

KooKoo Puzzles

KooKoo Puzzles

KooKoo Puzzles is a different kind of puzzle that will challenge visual perceptual as well as hand skills.

KooKoo Puzzles includes 24 cards, four different puzzles with six cards each. You can see one of the puzzles in the image above. Cards may overlap and/or need to lay on top or tucked in behind several cards, depending on the partial images that are showing. Cards may need to be tilted to line up correctly.

The cards are large, approximately 3 3/4 X 5 3/4. There are completed pictures included so that you know what you are working toward.  The box says ages 7+, but it only took me a minute or so to complete one six-piece puzzle. You will need to hold cards still with one hand so they don't slide around as you add new cards with the other. When you turn all 24 cards over, you can build a large 24 card puzzle from the images on the back.

Try this:

  • Make the puzzles without looking at the finished image (still not too challenging).
  • Start by completing one puzzle together. Give the cards to the individual, one at a time and in order, so that he gets an idea of what is expected.
  • Show the individual the finished picture, give him a few extra cards mixed in with the puzzle cards, and ask him to sort out the six he thinks will be needed.
  • Work on manual dexterity, spatial relations, visual discrimination, visual closure,  fine motor precision, eye-hand coordination, coordinate use of both hands, process skills, executive functioning skills, play and leisure exploration and participation

In the box: 24 large cards
Ages 7+

If you are interested in purchasing this item or just want more information, click on the image below.

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