Gully Balance Game - 5 Legs, By Gully Boards - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Hand-held balance game 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:  5 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Collectors of wooden games, and generally, anyone! 

Have you seen the latest “Balance Games” range from Gully Boards ? Intuitive, not much explanation required, and no fixed rules whatsoever on how (and in what other ways) you can play with it! Today, I’m going to talk about this beautiful, timeless new Gully Balance Game - “5 Legs”! 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Classic & Timeless Handheld Game

“5 Legs” reminds me of a handheld gaming console - save that it is not battery-powered, no fast-paced screen movement, and no press-able buttons. Instead, you get a wooden board with 5 steel balls securely encased beneath a clear “screen”, running freely along a horizontal path that branches out into 5 separate “legs”. Your first mission? Simply tilt and twist the playing field, guide the balls to achieve “one ball in each leg”. The game is straightforward, but not as simple; slightly challenging, but possible! The game is instinctive, addictive, calming, and has amazing replay value. It teaches us to focus, challenges our dexterity and hand-eye coordination. 

(2) A Versatile Toy: So Many Ways To Play!

 I love that there are more than one way to play with this game! Apart from the basic “one ball in each leg”, the ultimate challenge is to get “all five balls into each leg” from the leftmost branch to the right. We struggle (and are still trying to figure out the secret trick) to navigate all 5 balls into the 2nd, 3rd and 4th leg branches. Our 7 year-old also loves inventing his own rules, setting specific goals, and testing out different technique (for example, form pre-determined patterns, play by holding the board vertically, pre-set a time limit, upside down challenge etc). 

(3) Travel-Friendly Game With Quality & Durable Materials 

“5 Legs” are crafted using sustainably sourced Victorian Ash timber and coated with a natural hardwax oil. I love the thoughtful rounded and curved corners. The steel balls are securely encased with safety screws. The game is durable and is built to last a lifetime. I love that it is light weight, compact, easily portable (perfect for a car journey). 

(4) Classic Wooden Game For All Ages! 

I love that this is a game for all ages. The adults and our 7 year-old love it. Our 4 year-old enjoys simply shaking the board randomly and watching them running around the course without an aim. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gullyboards.com.au/collections/balance-games/products/gully-balance-games-5-legs

Enjoy the video! 

Phonics Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Word-building blocks    

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:  5 - 8 year-old 

Who would love this: Parents and kids who are looking for fun and engaging way to learn about the magic of word-building! 

I recently wrote a review about the “CVC Tri-Blocks Tub” by Junior Learning - an innovative blocks that introduces kids to the foundation of CVC words. But of course, we know words-building are more than just that; I think it’s complex little system in the vast language universe 😆. Today, I would love to share about the “Phonics Tri-Blocks Tub” by Junior Learning - another words-learning tool that we genuinely love! 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) 90 Word-Building Blocks With Lower Case Letters 

Within the big plastic tub with blue lid, you will find 90 Tri-Blocks with lower-case letter(s) printed on each main surface of the triangular prism. Sometimes, it’s a single letter (a short vowel or consonant); sometimes, there are two or more letters, such as a “long vowel (“ee”, “oo”, “igh”) and other types of vowel digraphs (“ue”, “aw”, “ay”). Our 7-year-old boy was extremely excited to explore these blocks; He combined vowels and consonants, and built CVC and CVVC words such as “sit”, rain”, “hear”. We formed words with split digraphs (eg “cake”), adjacent consonants” (eg “tree”), and multi-syllabic (eg “bedtime”). This set provides HUGE words-building possibilities, and I love the included booklet that gives us a quick guide to systematic phonics progression. 

(2) Colour-Coded & Attachable Word-Building Blocks

These blocks are cleverly-designed with attachable connectors; they provide us with a visual, tactile, multi-sensory way to explore the in-depth ocean of words-building. The letters are “colour-coded” to give “visual clarity” to the  word-formation (for example, in “rain” - the first consonant is in dark blue, the long vowel “ai” is in green, and the last consonant is in light blue). 

(3) Substitute Word-Building Blocks To Create New Form of Words! 

The blocks are easy to be snapped together / taken apart, and are “spin-able”. It was fun to substitute a letter or two, and explore what other new words we can create! For example, we can join common suffixes such as “ing” and turn a verb into “present continuous” form (eg “play” to “playing”). We can add a “s” to turn a singular to plural noun (eg “chair” to “chairs” / or a base verb into singular verb (eg “run” to “runs”). We can also twist a block and reveal a new word (eg from “cow” to “mow”). 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://juniorlearning.com.au/products/jl175-tri-blocks-tub?_pos=2&_sid=cd5bdf2ff&_ss=r

Enjoy the video! 

Helicopter - 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Wooden kumiki puzzle   

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:  7 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Collectors of wooden 3D puzzles 

In the age where battery-operated and trendy toys (especially those equipped with lights and sounds) take the major market share, it’s beautiful to see small businesses like Funyards Australia continue to bring us little joy in life through a range of timeless, lovingly handcrafted wooden products. Recently, we were given this “Helicopter - 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle” for a review - we are captivated immensely by the wisdom and ingenuity behind the flawless kumiki design of this brain-teaser! 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Fun & Challenging 3D Puzzle With 17 Interlocking Pieces 

It’s fun to take the helicopter model apart, and reveal the 17 interlocking wooden pieces in varied sizes and shapes. From the first glance, the puzzle looks deceptively simple - some of the pieces seem pretty “obvious” and there are quite a few large and chunky ones that we can immediately identity where they should go. But once we started the assembly process, we realised immediately that the puzzle is “harder than it looks”. It took us a while to get the base (landing skid) pieces figured out, before we built the model upwards one piece at a time, and interlocked the final “rotor blade” piece to fill the remaining gap and securely hold the model together. It’s amazing to watch the individual pieces come together and turn into a medium-sized helicopter. Once we discovered the tricks and steps, we were eager to disassemble and reassemble the puzzle again, multiple times. It’s an unexpectedly addictive exercise. 

(2) Wooden Helicopter Toy

I love that this stimulating brain-teaser is also a fascinating decorative item, and an engaging aircraft toy to be incorporated into our imaginative small world creation. The main top blades are not rotatable (it would be awesome if they can move), but the tail rotors are spin-able, and the pieces hold together as a single model securely once fixed! 

(3) 3D Wooden Puzzle With Quality of Workmanship

I love the rustic feel of the handmade product. I love the precisely-cut pieces that can interlink and fit perfectly, the fine and sturdy quality wood of at least two contrasting shades to accentuate the beauty of natural timber. The toy is manufactured in Thailand, and elegantly handcrafted by local artisans. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia 

Check out my reviews on other 3D wooden puzzles from Funyards Australia: 

• Elephant Pull Toy, By Funyards Australia 
• Football Natural Wood Brainteaser, By Funyards Australia 
• 3 Games In A Wooden Box, By Funyards Australia 
• Satellite 3D Puzzle, By Funyards Australia 

Enjoy the two videos! 

Video: Helicopter - 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle, by Funyards Australia 

Video: How to assemble the "Helicopter- 3D Interlocking Wooden Puzzle from Funyards Australia

Quercetti Skyrail Suspension Basic Marble Run, By Quercetti - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Marble run with unique suspension cables 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  7 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Adults and older kids that love constructing and admiring the magic of marble run! 

 “Quercetti Skyrail Suspension Basic Marble Run” by Quercetti - it’s eye-catching, dangerous-looking. It reminds me of a hair-raisingly scary roller coaster experience, with narrow tracks spiralling downwards and suspended midair (supported by thin cables). Thank you Heebie Jeebies for providing another super COOL toy for review! 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Roller Coaster Style Marble Run

This is one of the few most exciting marble runs I have ever tested; It has stunning red tracks turning and revolving around a central pillar, and a uniquely-design suspension cables that can be adjusted in height and inclination. In this set, you will find 132 pieces, including 7 straight tracks, 12 curved tracks, 8 marbles of two types / dimensions, 5 base, 6 tie rods with hook and wire, 9 columns, 16 brackets and joints, and 18 connections. The illustrated guide is easy to follow; our 7 year-old completed most of the construction independently (apart from the final installation of the suspension wires, where he needed a hand). We were extremely thrilled to see the final structure comes into life! It’s an astounding, vibrant, and visually-gripping 16 feet of track! I find the tie-ropes suspension innovative and original, and I love the fun but a little serious touch to the ball run track. 

(2) Unique Marble Run Set With Suspension Cables To Adjust Height & Inclines

It’s mesmerising watching the 8 marbles rolling and spiralling down along the track, and halted gracefully at the “stopper”. It’s a visually engaging way to observe and learn about basic engineering principles in the world of physics - gravitation, velocity, kinetic energy, centripetal acceleration (ie. changes to velocity when an object travels on circular path). And if any of these sound too complex, we can just simply enjoy the breathtaking structure and admire the beauty of marbles racing around the course.  We also love experimenting with the cables to find the right inclines and height, and to create optimal speed for the marbles to complete the run! 

(3) Made-In-Italy Marble Run Set 

Quercetti prides itself as one of the few companies that control its production chain directly. The entire production cycle (from the design to delivery) was carried out in Italy. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Professor Plums (Australia)

Enjoy the video! 

Clixo Rainbow Pack 42 Pcs, By Toyish Labs - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Unique construction set - a blend between paper origami and magnetic tiles  

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids and adults who are eager to test out innovative & super FUN construction toys! 

Clixo is one of COOLEST things I have ever played with! It’s a blend between paper origami and magnetic tiles, building blocks and tactile play. Clixo is unlike anything I have ever seen. It’s unique, innovative, and one of a kind! Today, I’m going to talk about Clixo Rainbow Pack 42 Pcs (thank you Divisible by Zero for providing a copy!). 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Flexible & Creative Construction Toy With Magnetic Parts

Clixo is flexible, bendable, foldable flat pieces, connectable by magnetic parts to form interesting objects, animals, accessories and many more! In this set, you get 42 Clixo pieces in 7 unique shapes, with “double-sided” magnetic buttons. The colour-coded magnetic parts are simply ingenious! Simply twist and fold the pliable pieces, and match up the red magnetic connectors to the blue ones to secure the structure. The set includes an instructional sheet with building ideas - from helicopter with spin-able rotor, whimsical dragonfly, sphere, necklace and more. Our boy’s personal favourite is the rainbow serpent with “wriggly” body, constructed using numerous “quad” pieces in fancy cross-shape. He also built a “butterfly wings cape” for the little sister, and a Pokémon-inspired flying bug.  The creations are wild, full of possibilities, and I love the audible snapping sound with a “click”. 

(2) Unique Building Toy With Bright Vibrant Colours & Unique Shapes 

I love the vibrant and bold colours in this rainbow pack! They are eye-catching and visually stunning. The clever shapes give the modular units full potential to be folded in unexpected ways! Apart from the “quad” pieces, there are also two and three magnetic dots pieces, a few long strips, and “water drop” parts (that are perfect to be used as wings or flower petals). We also love the 3 spinners that add an exciting level of motion to our models! 

(3) Sustainable Toy Made Of Recyclable Materials

Clixo pieces are made from durable, recyclable synthetic paper with good strength. The embedded magnets are strong; the materials are non-toxic and kid-safe, and the products are in compliant with toy safety standards (ASTM, EN71). The packaging is sustainably manufactured using recycled and compostable bamboo pulp. I love that Clixo is light and compact, easily stackable for on-the-go play! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.coolthings.com.au/clixo-rainbow-pack-42pcs (Australia)

https://littlewishestoys.com.au/products/clixo-rainbow-pack (Australia)

Enjoy the two videos about Clixo! 

VIDEO: Clixo Rainbow Pack 42 Pcs, by Toyish Labs: 

VIDEO: Let's build with Clixo! 

Throw Throw Burrito, By Exploding Kittens - REVIEW

 

Nature/ Type:          A dodgeball card game 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  7 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids and adults that enjoy chaotic party games (especially one that involves throwing stuffs around - LOL) 

Confession time: “Throw Throw Burrito” by Exploding Kittens “terrifies” me - it’s unapologetically chaotic, extremely messy! It’s the opposite of what I want in life - organised, methodical, orderly neat. BUT life surprises you when you least expect it! 😆 This insane burrito-throwing game has just taken its place as our current favourite game! Thank you VR Distribution for providing this! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Chaotic Burrito-Throwing Card Game

If you haven’t guessed it, this game is not for the fainted-hearted. Be prepared to get active and jump into attack mode! Included are 120 Playing Cards, 2 Foam Burritos, 6 Burrito Bruises, a ”Fear Me Badge”, and Instructions. The aim of the game is to collect as many sets of 3 matching cards (by a series of “drawing and passing cards” actions, simultaneously done by all players). A set of 3 regular cards earn you one point, and a set of “battle cards” earns you 2 points and activates a round of burrito-chucking. Those who got hit get a “Burrito Bruise” which would cause a 1-point deduction. The game is played in two rounds (the winner of the first round gets a “Fear Me Badge”). And let’s be honest: who can resist watching a wild burrito 🌯 flying across the room? 

(2) Quick Game To Challenge Your Reaction Speed

I love that the game doesn’t treat itself (or anything) too seriously. To win this game, a fast reaction speed helps. There are 3 kinds of burrito battles depending on the set a player acquires; Each of the “Brawl”, “War” and “Duel” triggers different attack rules - but all involve throwing a soft and squishy burrito at another. I love that this game forces me to embrace a moment of silliness and forget about tidiness and order! 

(3) Card Games With CUTE Artworks

The two squidgy Foam Burritos with round innocent eyes are the cutest attack weapon I have ever seen. I also love the whimsical artworks and the adorable names given to the goofy characters (eg “MeowCow”, “LickyChicky”, “FloatyGoaty”). 

(4) Game With Organised & Sturdy Game Box

The most ironic thing is, despite the chaotic nature of this game, the package box is super sturdy and organised. Each of the compartments are clearly labelled with a little fun touch and clear arrows - “Burrito”, “Cards”, and “Put Other Stuff Here”. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.kmart.com.au/product/throw-throw-burrito-a-dodgeball-card-game-42925682/ (Australia) 

https://www.target.com.au/p/throw-throw-burrito/64173047 (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Dinosaur World Tyrannosaurus, By LaQ - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          LaQ set with cool dinosaurs theme! 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  7 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids and adults that enjoy building/ construction toys/ LaQ fans / dinosaur enthusiasts 

We were bitten by the “Dinosaur Bug” many years ago, and have never stopped loving  these prehistoric creatures. LaQ has an exciting range of Dinosaur World collection, and we are so grateful to have added this “Dinosaur World Tyrannosaurus” to our collection (thank you LaQ Australia for providing it). 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Spectacular LaQ"Live Creature" Models Of 6 Dinosaurs

Amongst the many construction toys that I have tested, I think LaQ has one of the best designs to make spectacular-looking “live creatures” models; It uses unique cursive joints, modular flat pieces, clever connection techniques, and special Hamacron parts (wheels and shafts) for its designed models. I’m always amazed at the outcomes - the “liveliness” and the inimitable LaQ style. This set includes 300 pieces, 4 special Hamacron parts, and an instruction booklet to build 6 impressive-looking dinosaurs. The models cleverly capture the distinguished features of these beautiful (and fearsome) creatures:

Tyrannosaurs is the largest character - with oversized and muscular jaw, disproportionately tiny arms, massive tail, and I am captivated by its menacing expression and powerful posture! Archaeopteryx has magnificent tail, Deinonychus has huge jaws, Carnotaurus has two horns above the eyes, Plesiosaurus has flipper-like limbs and long neck, and my favourite Ankylosaurus has its distinctive armoured and pointy body. 

(2) LaQ Set Of Intermediate Difficulty Level

In term of difficulty level, the models are probably in the range of easy to intermediate. Some techniques are required to create the variety of articulated movements (eg tyrannosaurus has flexible neck and tail, and Archaeopteryx’s body and tail are moveable). I think the set is just right for 7-year-old - it’s a little challenging, but not too overly complex to make it unmanageable. 

(3) Compatible With Other LaQ Sets

As usual, all LaQ kits are compatible with each other. Most LaQ pieces can be replaced / substituted using pieces from other LaQ sets. In other words, instead of dismantling a Dino model before we can start a second one, you can simply “supplement” the set using pieces from other LaQ kits in your collection (or even spice up the colour combinations of the models!). 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://smartypantstoys.com.au/collections/dinosaur-world/products/laq-dinosaur-tyrannosaurus

Check out my reviews on other LaQ medium-size sets: 

• Buildout Robot Alex, By LaQ
• Buildout Robot Lapis, By LaQ
• Mystical Beast Griffin, By LaQ
• Dinosaur World Triceratops & Pteranodon, By LaQ

Enjoy the video! 

Mindblock, By Blue Orange - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Modified, 3D-version of the classic Rummy game 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  8 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Older kids and adults that love strategy games, especially those involving number, pattern, and anything methodical. 

We are BIG FANS of number games! The boy loves counting, exploring patterns of numerical order, and discovering magic of equations and all things mathematical. So it’s not surprising that we were instantly drawn to Mindblock by Blue Orange, a modified 3D version of the classic Rummy card games. Thank you Leisure Learning for providing this awesome game for a review! 

Why I love ❤️ this game?: 

(1) Game Rules: Arrange Blocks According to Numbers/ Patterns

This game would attract anyone who finds number, pattern and anything methodical fascinating. Mindblock contains 56 blocks (in 7 sizes, 4 colours, 2 of each), 4 block trays, 1 cotton bag, and an illustrated rules. The aim is to create “Sets” (3 or 4 blocks of same size but in different colours) and “Runs” (3 or more blocks of the same colour in consecutive order) by combining blocks that range in height of 1 to 7. On each player’s turn, we must play a “Run” /“Set”, or play at least one block and re-arrange the current blocks on the table to make valid “Runs” / “Sets”, or add a block to your tray (randomly drawn by another player, or course). There is another condition: each of the “Set” and “Run” must have a total sum of at least 15 (for example - “4, 5, 6”, but not “3, 4, 5”). The first player who gets rid of all the blocks on tray wins the game. This game is the exact genre that we LOVE! 

(2) Fantastic Strategy Game For Kids & Adults

We love that this game relies very largely on strategy, visualisation skill, and playing around with numbers (adding, subtracting, and re-arranging equations etc). I love that we can stack up like-coloured blocks to “substitute” a higher number block (eg stacking up a blue “2 and “3”, and use it as a blue “5”) - which is a great tactic to deplete the blocks in the tray quicker!

(3) Board Game With Vibrant & Bright Wooden Components

The wooden components are simply fantastic! The blocks are chunky, vibrant in colours (but with a hint of “seriousness” / grown-up feel in it due to the unique tone of colours), carved with tactile ridges, and have a very pleasing quality in them. The presentation is visually-appealing. The player trays are made of nice quality timber with a very luxurious and natural appearance, and I love the cotton storage bag for the blocks. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.leisurelearning.com.au/mindblock

Check out the reviews of other Blue Orange games for older kids/ adults that I really love: 

• Tumblemaze, By Blue Orange 
• Dragon Market, By Blue Orange 
• Kingdomino Origin, By Blue Orange 
• Cloud City, By Blue Orange 
• Block Ness, By Blue Orange 

Enjoy the video! 

Kaleido-Craft DIY Timber Kaleidoscope, By Heebie Jeebies - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          DIY kaleidoscope kit 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  6 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids that love art & craft, and those who would love to find out how a kaleidoscope works "behind the scene" 

Do you remember your first experience with kaleidoscope? That magical moment when you first saw the burst of colour, symmetrical pattern that moved with each spin, and the never-ending array of intricate arts? We are absolutely in love with “Kaleido-Craft DIY Timber Kaleidoscope” (provided by Heebie Jeebies), and I can’t wait to tell you about it today! 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) Make-Your-Own Kaleidoscope Kit - There is no better way to learn about the science behind a kaleidoscope than to “get your hands dirty” and make one yourself! Kaleido-Craft is a 17-piece experiment kit, a simple craft that allows us to discover the wonder of light and colour, an exploration that would leave us spellbound for hours! Through the DIY process, we learned how three inclined mirrors, arranged in triangular tilted angles, could create enchanting image with symmetrical pattern through repeated, reflecting surfaces. We learned what gorgeous optical scene an ordinary object (such as flower or leaves) can produce with the right assembly of mirrors. We learned how to  use the motion of loose and glittery pieces to create ever-changing visual art. We learned how to create a peephole, how to seal the objects within the glass discs, and how the device works “behind the scene”. 

(2) Experiment With Different Materials And be Mesmerised! - Once we have assembled the instrument, we can experiment with different materials by replacing the items on the discs. We were mesmerised by the incredible and stunning displays when the objects and light interact with each other, shifting each time when we rotate the wheel. We tested it out with wild flowers, leaves of all shapes, sparkly sequins, shiny foil, and colourful confetti. The potential is endless, the variations is infinite! Rumour says, we never see a same pattern twice through a kaleidoscope. 

(3) Great Components - I love how the simple components work together; we don’t need any glue or extra tool to assemble the device. I love the timber material, the reflective mirror surfaces that stick nicely on the timber pieces, the nut and bolt, the magnet embedded octagonal wheels that securely enclose the objects between the two discs, and the step-by-step illustrated instructions. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://professorplums.com.au/products/kaleido-craft-creator?_pos=1&_sid=bcac88951&_ss=r

Enjoy the video! 

CVC Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Word-building blocks 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  5 - 8 year-old 

Who would love this: Parents who are looking for multi-sensory, words-learning educational resources 

CVC words - the 3-letter words that follow the consonant/vowel/consonant pattern; the simplest form that introduces us to the magic of stringing-up alphabetical letters and building basic, everyday-words. If you are looking for cool educational resources that make words-learning engaging and stimulating, you should check out “CVC Tri-Blocks Tub” by Junior Learning. 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) 90 Tri-Blocks To Form Short and Fun CVC Words - This set includes a big plastic tub of 90 Tri-Blocks® . Each of the block is in a unique triangular form, with a lower-case letter printed on each surface (total 3 letters on each block). I love that these attachable blocks provide kids with a visual, tactile, and multi-sensory way to explore the “mystery” of building words! I love watching my 4-year-old experimenting the combinations, and trying to sound the blend of consonants and short vowels. I love the clever connectable design; it’s easy to slide and snap the blocks together, or to take them apart. We make “small and short” words such as “man”, “net”, “cub”, “get”, “van” and many more. (And if your kids are ready to embark on something more challenging and complex, Junior Learning also has a “Phonics Tri-Blocks Tub” which I will share with you next time!). 

(2) Colour-Coded & Smart Connectors - The blocks are colour-coded; the beginning consonants are in dark blue, short vowels in red, and final consonant in light blue. We usually start by dividing the blocks into 3 categories based on colours before we commence building the words. I love the visual clarity; it’s easy to learn the CVC and spelling rules using these blocks. I love that the blocks are designed so that the 3 types of letters must be connected in one orientation and sequence (ie in the order of “CVC”). 

(3) Clever Spin-able Blocks - The blocks, once snapped together, are “spin-able” to create different words due to the clever triangular design. It is super fun to twist and manipulate the blocks, and discover how many other words we can form with just a change of one letter (for example, “cat” and “can”, “beg” and “bag”). Sometimes, with some luck, we can even create 2 to 3 valid words at the same time when we rotate the triangle set as a row! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://juniorlearning.com.au/products/jl176-cvc-tri-blocks-tub?_pos=1&_sid=25defb1f0&_ss=r

Enjoy the video! 

Rolly Poly, By Math For Love - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Counting game for young kids 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:  4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids who love number and counting games (with a lots of Actions!) 

Our four-year-old is at that adorable developmental stage - she has BIG imagination, enjoys silly games, and loves counting things at any time of the day! Divisible by Zero sent us this brand new game called “Rolly Poly” by Math For Love, and oh, what I can say? Action-packed, cute and entertaining, full of laughter, simply awesome! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Count, Play, Laugh - Get ready to move and be active - cause that’s what “Rolly Poly” is about! First, set up the counters in numerical orders (from 1 to 6); shuffle the deck, roll the die, pick a card, and perform the required action as many times as the number shown on the die (eg clapped 6 times). The set includes 36 “action cards” - some can be completed individually, some are to be done collectively as a team. The kids hugged, bowed, did some “star jumps”, gave each other high-fives, hopped (or attempted to hop) on one foot, took many “big steps”, made themselves dizzy with some spins, and named many types of food. Once a task is completed, put the action card under the corresponding number counter. The game ends (and everybody wins) when we “scored” and covered every counter. I love the cooperative nature of this game, and how young kids can learn counting through so much happy laughter, high energy and JOY! 

(2) Add-On Cards For Advanced Play - And when your kids are ready for something more challenging, pull out the “advanced play” cards and spice up the game with some adding-up exercises. Pick an add-on card (+1, +2, +3, +4, +5, +6); this time, roll a die, pick a card, and perform the required action as many times as the number shown on the die plus the “add-on” number (eg, if the add-on number is +3, and you roll a “6”, you do the action 9 times instead of 6). 

(3) Super Cute Components (Especially The Giant Plush Die) - My personal favourite part of this game is the bright orange, soft and squeezable, giant plush die. It’s fun to throw it around, roll it everywhere, or simply just squash it. (4) I also love the wooden number counters, the thick cardboard components, and the creatively-designed storage box with the game steps printed and illustrated on four sides of it. The quality of components is good, and the design is playful and fun! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

toys2learn (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Wooden Sudoku, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Wooden Sudoku set 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  8 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Sudoku fans, and collectors of wooden / classic puzzles

Sudoku used to be my go-to game for every gaps and breaks; it is stimulating, unstoppable, frustrating; it requires patience, perseverance, and sometimes, a super methodical mind that I’m obviously lacking. It’s a forgotten passion of mine, and I’m grateful that it has been reignited recently, thanks to Funyards Australia! Today, I’m going to talk about this kindly gifted, beautifully-made Wooden Sudoku - a  must-have for any Sudoku enthusiast. 

Why I love ❤️ this set: 

(1) Sudoku in 3D Wooden Form - I have done printable Sudoku on paper, beat-the-clock online Sudoku, and daily newspaper version.  But a Sudoku in 3D wooden form? This is a FIRST and I’m completely intrigued! The Wooden Sudoku comes in a gorgeous board of 9x9 grid with drilled holes, and 81 pegs. Each of the puzzle piece (the peg) features a same number (1 to 9) in black and red on opposite ends, which makes the setting-up and solving of the puzzles visually easier and clearer. The physical, tangible pegs help players to keep track and cross-check the numbers. They also help us to focus on the logical sequence of the moves, and have oversight of the entire grid in a more visible way. 

(2) Sudoku Puzzles Included - The set also includes an instruction sheet and 4 Sudoku puzzles in four different levels (easy, medium, hard, and very hard), together with the solutions. Of course, we can always challenge ourselves with different Sudoku puzzles (which can be easily obtainable from online resources these days). It’s a bliss to set up the challenge (insert the pegs and arranged them according to the pattern as indicated), and extremely addictive to solve (fill out the rest of the cells using the remaining numbered pegs so that each row, column and quadrant contains all the digits from 1 to 9 without repetition). This is a classic, timeless brain game that would never go out of style! 

(3) Handcrafted Wooden Puzzle Set - I love the handcrafted wooden material, its durability, and that inimitable rustic beauty. I love that the base can be flipped over and used as a lid to keep all the items (pegs and instruction sheet) neatly stored inside a portable box. This delightful set deserves a place in any puzzle-loving home. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia 

Check out the reviews of other similar wooden classic games and puzzles from Funyards Australia: 

• Tic-Tac-Toe XO-5, By Funyards Australia 
• Numbers Sort Brainteaser, By Funyards Australia 
• Makruk Chess, By Funyards Australia 
• Slide 15, By Funyards Australia 
• Spinning Top Roulette, By Funyards Australia 
• Snakes and Ladders, By Funyards Australia

Enjoy the video! 

Carla Caramel, By LOKI - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:          Ice-cream theme, cooperative game 

Rating:                     ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:  4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids who love sweet treats and board games with a cool theme 

Carla Caramel from LOKI has just become the most in-demand game in our family; ice cream with 4 flavour bombs, eye-catching vendor stall set-up, a relatable theme that resonates dearly with the “sweet tooth” clan. Carla Caramel has EVERYTHING irresistible to kids and adults. Thank you VR Distribution , this game is fantastic! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Exciting Ice Cream Theme - We LOVE the ice cream theme with clear objective; this game captures the hearts of both my kids (4 and 7 year-old). First, set up the ice cream stand with the Sun token placed at the left-most space on the canopy. Players take turn to roll the special chunky dice - add a scoop of ice cream on a selected cone if you roll a “flavour”, move the sun one space to the right if you get the “Sun”, and serve an ice-cream cone to a kid waiting in queue if the dice shows a “Kid”. The goal is to race against the “Sun” to serve all 5 kids with the most “completed” and marvellous-looking ice-cream (preferably with 3 scoops on each cone!). But beware, the “Sun” melts an ice cream for good when it moves onto the canopy space facing a cone with 3 scoops. The game ends when you get 5 happy kids with their delicious treats, OR when 2 out of the 6 ice cream are melted by the Sun. Players then count the final score of the game based on the number of scoops served, and receive their “medal” of the day (“Popsicle” medal for the lowest score, and “Master Scooper” medal for the team with 18 to 20 points). 

(2) Cooperative + Strategy Game - It was GREAT fun watching the kids discussing passionately, trying to agree to the BEST strategy to win. They figure out plans to accumulate more points and to avoid melted ice-cream, and decide together whether a “risk” is worth taking (e.g should we pass a turn when we roll a “Kid”, and try to get more scoops up on the cones?). 

(3) Stunning & Quality Game Components - I LOVE the innovative and visually-appealing presentation of this game; I love how the ordinary box can be cleverly transformed into an exciting 3D ice-cream stand with partitioned “tubs” of ice cream. I also love the wooden “ice cream” scoop in crescent shape, wooden dice, the sturdy cardboard cones, and the adorable graphics. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://shop.goodgames.com.au/products/carla-caramel (Australia) 

Enjoy the video!