Given this involvement, you can accomplish the same ends using inexpensive practice workbooks. Machines can't answer questions or interpret why a mistake is made, nor are they flexible enough to adjust for the time required by individual children to think about and understand an answer. We therefore caution you to consider the limitations of these toys carefully before you buy. When you are looking for educational toys, don't forget to consider puzzles. Assembling a puzzle requires logical thinking and learning through trial and error.
Puzzles are, therefore, an excellent preparation for learning to read.
You can encourage this skill development by sharing puzzles with your child. Puzzles should challenge a child without frustrating him, so watch that the number of pieces and complexity of design are appropriate to his growing ability. Graphics for young children should be clear and bright. Pieces should fit and hold together well, come apart easily and be sturdy enough to withstand repeated use.