Melissa and Doug Teach Kids Geography
Melissa and Doug USA Map Floor Puzzle is an enjoyable puzzle for young children that helps kids learn geography while also teaching them important facts about each state in the nation. This map is made from heavy, thick cardboard and it features individual pieces for most but not all of the U.S. states. Once assembled, it measures two feet by three feet and it offers youngsters a challenge as they try to place each state in its proper place.<br /><br />Education is the name of the game with the Melissa and Doug USA Map Floor Puzzle. Not only do kids get to learn about geography, they also get to learn about each U.S. state in other important ways. To add to the educational experience, Melissa and Doug decided to include the capital of each state and a small illustration of something unique to each state. The small illustration is especially useful because it teaches kids where to place the pieces, thereby helping them learn where each state is located. For example, most youngsters will not know where the state of Washington is located, but a quick glance at the box lets kids know that Washington is the state known for apples. All they have to do at that point is find the piece with the depiction of apples, then place it in the upper left corner of the puzzle.<br /><br />One fact about the Melissa and Doug USA Map Floor Puzzle that might bother some parents and kids is the tendency of the pieces to slide around. They do not interlock, and thus they tend to move around as the puzzle is assembled. I know that some people have criticized the puzzle for this reason, but I find it okay in this instance because it keeps the pieces/states true to form. If the puzzle pieces were interlocking, the individual pieces would not form the shape of a specific state, and it would interfere slightly with the learning experience.<br /><br />Educational toys are great and the Melissa and Doug USA Map Floor Puzzle is certainly a toy that helps kids learn: About geography, about state capitals, and about state trivia. It is true that the pieces tend to slide around and this could lead to frustration, but this is still a fun toy nonetheless that will satisfy most children and parents alike.