Spring Tangrams: Easy DIY Puzzles In Time For Easter

We are always on the look out for great ways to keep #thebigone busy without relying on screens. Our search led me to create these easy to make spring tangrams. We’ve introduced tangrams to him in the past, but I’m not sure he was truly ready for them until recently. These fun geometric puzzles can be deceptively simple, and are perfect for a large age range. (For reference, #thebigone is 6 1/2 years old.)

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I enjoy watching his mind process through the geometric challenges. They are perfect for improving his spatial thinking and reasoning, as he works to see how the pieces fit. Additionally, they are wonderful for developing his perseverance. My oldest can easily become frustrated and flustered when a solution is not quickly found. Working together with these spring tangrams is a great opportunity to encourage him to stick with it. I encourage him to problem solve, often suggesting he might turn something a bit, etc. It is wonderful to see his pride when he completes a challenge.

I put together these easy DIY spring tangrams to keep my oldest occupied as Easter approaches. They’re incredibly simple to create, and the supplies are reasonably priced. I put them together in a felt board style, meaning the pieces will not slide inadvertantly. Tangrams like these would make a perfect addition to an Easter basket.

Making Spring Tangrams

you will need:

• 2 pieces of felt. (1 will be a base, the other will be the tangrams, so there should be contrast.)
• Scissors.
• Frame with 8 inch x 10 inch opening, or larger. (You will not use the glass, so it’s an ideal project to upcycle a frame with broken glass. Consider checking the dollar store or a local thrift shop for something that will work.)
• Spring tangrams printables.
  • Pieces template.
  • Puzzle sheet.
  • Solutions sheet.
  •         

How to make spring tangrams:

1. If your frame has glass, remove it. Using the frame backing as a template, cut your base piece of felt down to the correct size. Reassemble the frame with the felt base included. If you have trouble getting your felt to lay smoothly inside the frame, a few touches of hot glue or a bit of scotch tape should solve the problem.
   
2. Cut out the template pieces from the free printable. Use them as patterns to cut each piece out of the contrast felt.
   
3. Print out the free puzzle sheet. Present the frame and puzzle sheet to your child and encourage them to get started putting the animals together.
   
4. If you guys need some guidance putting the spring tangrams together, use the printable solutions sheet for a bit of a hint.

In addition to the six puzzles I have provided, there are endless options for creating with tangrams. Look online for countless other ideas. Feel free to give your child free reign to assemble their own shapes and puzzles. With a piece of paper and a pencil, your family can create new challenges to share with each other.

What’s your go-to activity when it’s time for your family to unplug a bit?