An alphabet puzzle with interlocking-pieces, for children to learn letters and at the same time to learn to manipulate objects.

When children work on puzzles, they are actually "putting the pieces together" in more ways than one. Puzzles help children build the skills they need to read, write, solve problems, and coordinate their thoughts and actions—all of which they will use in school and beyond. By inserting pieces into the puzzle, children also develop the muscle group used for writing, or the "pincer" grasp.

Children can work on puzzles by themselves, without the help of adults or other children. They can also work together on large puzzles and practice compromising and getting along. Because each child must concentrate on the puzzle individually, he/she experiences a sense of satisfaction as he/she picks up a piece, rotates it, and discovers the spot in which it fits. Piece by piece, the child begins to recognize the picture that the puzzle represents.

Age: 3+

Size: c:a 27,5 cm long

Fair Trade.

Produced by a Sri Lanka based NGO providing work for youth with little education, money or job options - those most at risk in Sri Lanka's political violence. Artisans are trained on the job, and make handicrafts from fast-growing, sustainable albizia wood. The organisation has received numerous awards for job creation, export sales and social and environmental initiatives. Since 2004, it has also done long-term post-tsunami development and is a member of the International Fair Trade Association.