Geo-Puzzles & Games: Hands-On Learning Stations
Puzzles are a valuable learning tool. Not only do they encourage problem solving and spacial awareness, they are fun and engaging which helps students stay at a task for longer periods of time. However, not every puzzle is created equal. You need a good quality puzzle that is fun, educational, and made well. Geo-Puzzles are all three.
I'm focusing on Geography this week in my 31+ Days of Hands-On Learning Stations series, and today is all about learning with puzzles and games.
Geo Puzzles 
I love the Geo-Puzzles from GEOtoys. They have thick, sturdy pieces, and each piece is shaped like the individual state or country. They come in many varieties:
- The World
- North America
- Latin America
- Europe
- United Kingdom & Ireland
- Asia
- Africa
- Or you can get 6 Puzzles in One Box
If you're looking for a greater world puzzle challenge, the Global Puzzle is a really cool one. The only challenge with this one is that there are a lot of ocean pieces, so it can take more time putting the ocean together than the actual countries within the continents. I do like that the countries are individually cut on this one as well. I own it, but it only comes out when we really have time to do a puzzle.
Geography Games
I always love playing games that reinforce what we're learning. Here are some of my favorite geography games:
- GeoBingo - There is a World or a USA option, but both are great tools for discovering the world.
- Sequence States and Capitals - I love the game Sequence. It's a great strategy game. When I saw the USA version, I was so excited, because it integrates geography and strategy. Kids will love it.
- Scrambled States - Based on the silly book, this game introduces kids to the shapes, capitals, and nicknames of the states.
- The Ticket to Ride game family. Our family has really enjoyed becoming familiar with geography through these games. The classic Ticket to Ride is the best, but once you've enjoyed riding through the USA, you can try these other great expansion packs:
What are some of your kid's favorite Geography games?
Check out more hands-on learning stations inspiration in my 31+ Days of Hands-On Learning series! Try these other geography inspired stations:
Betsy Strauss is an unexpected homeschooler, mother of three, who is in a relationship with a sweet man for life. She loves reading books, drinking coffee, and learning anything with her kids.