MV T3.07Knobbed Puzzles
The child lifts puzzle pieces out of a wooden board by small knobs and fits each back into its space, starting with a single circle.
Safety
- Every piece must not fit the small parts test cylinder (1.25 in. wide × 2.25 in. deep), with or without its knob; check narrow pieces such as a single animal leg or a thin fish.
- Knobs loosen with use: pull each knob before offering the puzzle and remove any puzzle with a loose knob, because a knob on its own is a small part.
Presentation
- 1
Carry the circle puzzle to a table and sit beside the child, with the board in front of them.
- 2
Take the knob between your thumb, index, and middle fingers. Lift the circle straight up, slowly.
- 3
Place the circle on the table beside the board. Run one finger slowly around the edge of the empty space.
- 4
Pick the circle up by the knob, hold it above the space, and lower it in. The piece dropping flat into its space is the point of interest.
- 5
Take the circle out once more and set it down. Invite the child with a gesture.
- 6
If the child grips the whole piece instead of the knob, let them; show the three-finger hold again on another day.
- 7
When the child stops, check that the piece is in the board and return it to the shelf.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Single square, then single triangle, each of which must be turned to fit
- Board with two or three different shapes
- Board with 4–6 pieces showing familiar animals, fruit, or vehicles, one object per piece
Control of error
A piece fits only its own space and only when turned the right way; a piece that is not seated sits above the surface of the board.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Holds the knob with a three-finger grip
- Turns a square or triangle until it drops into place
- Completes a three-piece board without help
Guide note
Puzzles with more pieces are rotated in when the child completes the current one without help, not by age.