CrossMath, By MindWare - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Scrabble-style mathematics theme board game 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   7 year-old ++ 

Who would love this: Kids and adults who love a maths challenge! 

If you have a mathematics enthusiast and number lover at home, then you NEED to check out “CrossMath” by MindWare ! It’s mind-stimulating, strategically challenging.Thank you Leisure Learning for providing a copy for review! 

Why I love ❤️ this game:

(1) Scrabble Game - BUT With Number Tiles! 

This is a scrabble-inspired game BUT with one major difference: instead of building words using tiles with alphabetical letters, we form mathematics equations with number tiles! The rules are straightforward and very much like Scrabble: set up the game board, each player draws 10 tiles from the drawstring bag, and takes turn to form maths equations horizontally (from left to right) or vertically (from top to bottom) by placing tiles on the board - starting from the upper left corner. Just like Scrabble, each player must use at least one tile already on the board as part of the new equation, and all equations touching the tile must be true and valid. The 120 tiles include options for multiplication, division, addition and subtraction - so there are plenty of possibilities and sufficient room for players of different skill levels to join the game!

(2) Interesting Scrabble-Inspired Scoring System 

I love the Scrabble-style game board that determines the final scoring and drives the strategy of the game. Players score one point for each tile placed on the board; when you place a tile on a square with number, you score that number of additional points (eg if you place a tile on a square that has a “4” on it, you score additional 4 points). When you place a tile on a # sign, you score additional points for the number on your tile (eg if you place a “9” tile on #, you score an additional 9 points for that equation). 

(3) Includes Parent And Educator Guide For Play Variations 

The rules book includes “parent and educator guide” for skill-specific play variations. For example, we can remove multiplication and division tiles when playing with younger kids, or adjust the scoring mechanism for more advanced players. 

(4) Reasonably Decent Components With Sturdy Game Board

Components wise, the tiles are made of thick cardboard, and the racks are made of “soft” plastic - which are okay (but I wish they were a little more solid). The drawstring bag and the game board are great, and I love the sturdy game box. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.leisurelearning.com.au/crossmath (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Explorateur Compass, By Moulin Roty

Nature/ Type:           Beautiful explorer's compass for little kids 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   6 year-old ++ (or younger) 

Who would love this: Kids who enjoy nature, exploring, outdoor, and treasure hunt! 

Fun fact: do you know that compass was first invented more than 2000 years ago, and that the Ancient Greek already possessed the knowledge of Earth’s magnetic field since time immemorial? If you are looking for a unique Christmas stocking filler that is more than just a toy, look no further; Introducing - the “Explorateur Compass” from Moulin Roty . 

Why I love ❤️ it: 

(1) Functional Compass For A True Little Explorer   

I love that this compass is not just a fast-trending toy - it’s functional and does what a compass is meant to do! This stylish compass consists of a magnetised rose mounted on a pivot point. The circular image is marked in 10-degree graduation lines, rotating from 0 to 360 in a complete circle. The compass shows the four cardinal directions of North, East, South and West (represented by the abbreviations N, E, S, W), 4 other compass points (NE, SE, SW, NW), completes with a compass star in the middle. There is no better way to demonstrate to the kids how a compass works and how to detect geographical directions, than to show them an actual compass like this one! 

(2) Stylish With Hint Of Retro-ness 

I love how stylish this compass is! The white markings are placed against a contrasting black background, and the dial is set within a fluid filled capsule made from sturdy plastic case and a perspex top. The compass is modern-looking but retains a hint of retro-ness. It’s mesmerising to watch the magnetised rose buoys and moves in the encased liquid. 

(3) Light Weight, Pocket-Sized Compass For Outdoor Exploration 

I love how light weight and portable this pocket-sized compass is! Measuring around 6cm in diameter, this compass is perfect for outdoor activities, and I can’t wait to discover and explore the wisdom of natural magnetised field with the kids in a game of scavenger hunt and other orienteering activities! 

(4) Vintage Packaging With Nautical Theme 

When it comes to packaging, Moulin Roty has the most heart-warming and romantically vintage design. The compass comes in a nautical themed box with soft and gentle illustrations of a campsite scene. It’s a pure beauty in a tiny box of love. I love the matchbox-style and nostalgic feel of this beautiful product. This compass will make a truly beautiful and special gift in all occasions. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://littlesnail.com.au/shop/explorers-compass-moulin-roty/ (Australia) 

https://ourcornerstore.com.au/products/le-jardin-compass (Australia) 

https://littlegeneralkids.com.au/products/explorateur-compass (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Pass The Party Food, By Joey Games - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Cute board game with Australian party food theme

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   7 year-old ++ (or younger) 

Who would love this: Kids who enjoy cooperative game with hint of strategy + party food! 

 I’m a fan of Joey Games . They are fun and easy to learn, and I love the Australian-theme connection. “Pass The Party Food” is one of the few board games at our house that our two kids (4 and 7 year-old) get to play together, and I’m really pleased to see another engaging game that fits into this age-range. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Cute Cooperative Game With Easy-To-Learn Rules 

“Pass The Party Food” is a cooperative game with straightforward strategy. The objective is to collect complete sets of foods (5 of each, or 4 of a same type) to advance forward on the score board. To set up, each player gets a “play board” with images of party foods arranged in horizontal and vertical rows. On each turn, a player draws 3 random food tiles from a drawstring bag, distributes the tiles (keep 1, pass 1 to the player on the left, and the last 1 to the player on the right/ to be discarded - depending on number of players). Players work collaboratively to race against Ziggy to prevent the mischievous dog from catching up with any player on the score board. There are also Swap Tokens, Take Tokens, and “Lucky Dip” (for a special bonus draw) that give a little twist to the game. I love that the game really maximises the “teamwork” aspect - not only do the players need to think about how to gather their own complete sets, they must also take tactical moves to help other players to score during each turn! 

(2) Delicious Australian Party Food Theme 

I adore the cute and nostalgic Australian party foods theme! Fairy Breads and chewy snakes are big favourites in our parties, and we love spongy chocolate lamingtons. The kids are very curious about pikelets and the Hundreds and thousands biscuits. We love how “delicious” this game is and that hint of retro look! 

(3) Delightful Artwork + Environmental-Friendly Components 

The artwork is delightful, and the components are well-made. The player boards, food tiles, score board and other thick cardboard components were made using sustainably managed materials (FSC certified paper and cardboard), and the pawns are made of quality wooden material. 

Whilst this game might not excite a grown-up too much (given how straightforward the gameplay is), it’s definitely a hit with the kids in the right age bracket. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://joeygames.com.au/passthepartyfood

Check out my reviews on other Joey Games: 

• Busy Beaks, by Joey Games 
• Scribbly Gum, by Joey Games 

Enjoy the video! 

Clixo Wheel Creator Pack, By Clixo - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Innovative magnetic construction toy  

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   6 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Anyone (kids and adults) with BIG imagination and who enjoys building 

I’m a BIG fan of educational playthings that are innovative, unique, inspiring. Clixo is that sort of toys that retains its inimitable “wow” factor: the more we play with it, the more intrigued (and obsessed) we are! Allow me to share with you today - Clixo Wheel Creator Pack by Clixo (thank you Divisible by Zero for providing a copy!). 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Innovative Construction Toy That Bends & Folds & Connects

From a quick glance, it’s easy to think that Clixo is just another “toy for small kids”, probably no difference from other magnetic tiles or building blocks. If you are thinking just that: please, take a closer look. Clixo bends, folds, connects, curves, forms the coolest shapes, makes the most unexpected models - like NOTHING we had ever seen! The concept reminds of bamboo architecture - versatile, flexible, displays great strength. This pack has 72 pieces in 10 shapes. Apart from the “standard” Clixo pieces (TwoDots, TriDot, Quads, Super Quads, Flaps, Flops, Spinners, Longy), this set includes a few special items that make your creations go vroommm! There are 8 wheels with magnetic connection and 4 cleverly-designed brackets (an accessory that can hold the wheels in a “straight” and level position). Clixo distinguishes itself with the ingenious colour-coded / double-sided magnetic dots; Simply twist and fold the pliable pieces, and match up the red magnetic connectors to the blue ones to secure the structure, and create rolling car with futuristic look, spin-able peacock, speedy jet plane with moving wheels, and anything that wriggles and twists. 

(2) Multi-Coloured Clixo Pieces 

Just like the Rainbow Pack, the Wheel Creator Pack includes multi-coloured Clixo pieces that are vibrant, eye-catching, visually stunning. 

(3) Durable & Recyclable Materials 

Clixo pieces are made from durable, recyclable synthetic paper with good strength. The embedded magnets are impressively 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. I highly recommend Clixo! 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.coolthings.com.au/clixo-wheel-creator-pack-72pcs (Australia) 

https://www.childplay.com.au/products/clixo-wheel-creator-pack (Australia) 

https://www.starfishstore.com.au/products/clixo-wheel-creator-pack (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Food Fractions, By Junior Learning - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Educational resources to learn about fractions 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Parents who are looking for fun and engaging educational resources for their kids to learn about fractions & mathematics / AND kids who love foods & puzzle 

“Food Fractions” from Junior Learning is the most mouth-watering mathematics and fractions learning resources I had ever seen. It’s realistic, visually-appealing, makes us hungry, and our two kids genuinely love it. 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) 129 Fractional Foods In Numerous Shapes, Sizes, Sections! 

Unseal the box, and get ready to be intrigued by the numerous food pieces poured out from the packaging! There are a total of 129 (!) fractional foods in multiple shapes, sizes, sections. You get a classic Pink Frosted Sprinkled Donut divided into 3 separate pieces, a waffle in four perfect quarters, six pieces of chocolate cake topped with crunchy shavings, 8 slices of Pepperoni pizza, cherry pie in 10 equal segments, carrot chopped in 5, a long loaf of bread in 10 slices, a whole banana, a big round watermelon, and MANY MORE delicious and realistic-looking food pieces (a total of 21 forms, to be exact). Seriously, what’s better way to learn and visualise a tricky mathematics concept such as fractions than by using vivid, colourful and kids-friendly food representation! 

(2) Quality Thick Cardboard Material With Magnetic Sheets At The Back 

The food pieces were made of thick cardboard with foam board (which give them a bit of a “3D” feel). There are magnetic sheets at the back of these food fractions - so we can complete the “fraction puzzles” by sticking the pieces on whiteboard, fridge, magnetic dry erase board, and more! I love how simple yet versatile these educational resources are! 

(3) Versatile - Different Ways To Play & Learn 

I love that there are so many different ways to play with these food fractions, depending on the kid’s age and skill level. My 7 year-old has just started learning about fraction numbers in school, so he was pretty excited to identify the fraction numeral on each of the food pieces (the 1/2 on the half banana, 1/8 on the corn on cob segments, 1/12 on the watermelon wedges etc). Personally, I’m not quite sure if the carrot (and cucumber) chunks of unequal sizes can be strictly considered as “fractions”, but I’m probably being a bit pedantic over here. Our 4 year-old uses these pieces for her invented games, and she really enjoys completing the interesting food puzzles and “serving” them at her teddy bear picnics and tea-parties. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this:

https://juniorlearning.com.au/products/food-fraction?_pos=1&_sid=eb394d8b8&_ss=r (Australia) 

Check out more review of Junior Learning products here: 

• Times Table Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 
• Multiplication Dominoes, By Junior Learning 
• Flashbot, By Junior Learning 
• Phonics Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning
• CVC Tri-Blocks Tub, By Junior Learning 
• 100s Bubble Board, By Junior Learning 

Enjoy the video! 

Hurry Up Chicken Butt, By Exploding Kittens - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Cute action-packed game for young kids  

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Young kids - This is an awesome party game for kids around 4 year-old ++ 

I love watching the kids playing silly games, especially when it is a game involves numerous active movements, a clucking chicken, and endless laughter. 🤣 Thank you VR Distribution for recommending this energetic game called “Hurry Up Chicken Butt” by Exploding Kittens. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) A Cute Little Action-Packed Game For Little People 

This game is action-packed! To set up, each player gets a nest card. Pick a card respectively from the blue (Go Around Everyone), green (Do It 5 Times), and purple (Show Off) decks. Each of the card will determine the actions to be performed by the players, depending on the colour reveals by the dice. There is also a pink “Chicken Butt” card (which is to be placed somewhere outside the playing area - a player is required to run and touch the card when it get a “pink” dice). Now, start the clucking chicken timer, shake it, and perform the required action based on the colour the dice lands (“rainbow” means player can perform any action, and “yellow” means roll again). Next, pass the clucking timer and place it on another player’s nest. The next player will likewise rush to get all actions done, before the chicken starts squawking noisily (which means the game ends and the last player that completed all tasks is the winner!). Our kids adore this game and have loads of giggling time rubbing belly, waddling like penguin, hopping on 1 foot, shouting out imaginary word - whilst trying their best to beat the chicken timer! This game is fast-paced, hilarious, unpredictable (everyone has an equal chance to win). 

(2) Chicken Timer That Clucks And Makes Sound 

The chicken timer is battery operated (you need 2xAAA cells - not included in the set). It makes funny and intense clucking sound that really sets the “urgent” mood, and I love that the dice is securely locked within the transparent chicken lid. I think this game will do marvellous magic in a party environment for kids around 4 year-old (but probably not so much for kids of 7 year-old or more). 

(3) Super Adorable Artwork & Instructions For Kids 

The artwork is adorable - each card has a cute yellow baby chick (still in its “egg nappy”) performing the required action. I also love the separate instructions written for grown-ups and for the kids. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/hurry-up-chicken-butt/ (Australia) 

https://www.toysandtales.com.au/products/hurry-up-chicken-butt (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

The Nutcracker Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra), By Kaddo - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Puzzle with musical buttons with sound clips! 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Anyone - This is one of the most unique puzzles I have ever seen, and I can't wait to explore more of Kaddo's magical uniqueness! 

The publisher of the well-known “Little People, BIG DREAMS” book series Quarto has just launched their gift imprint Kaddo, and I can’t wait to tell you more about its fantastic new products! Let me share with you: “The Nutcracker Musical Puzzle (The Story Orchestra)”! 

Why I love ❤️ this puzzle: 

(1) A Puzzle With Musical Buttons! 

This is probably the most enchanting, extraordinary, and unique puzzle I have ever seen! This Musical Puzzle has 4 “hidden” buttons on the board, each with a 10-second sound clip that plays beautiful melody composed by Tchaikovsky, incorporated seamlessly into the theatrical and sensational Nutcracker puzzle scene. Press the musical buttons, and listen to the vivid and vibrant sound from the original score of the world-famous ballet performance. I love the distinct and myriad moods conveyed by the music selections: from the playful notes of “Grandfather’s Dance”, energetic “Russian Dance”, fearful “Clara’s Dream” (my kids describe it as “a spooky Halloween song”), to everyone’s favourite magical tune “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy”. We love exploring the changing tempo, dynamics, and instruments (sparkly celesta, bass clarinet, timpani, and more). This is such an innovative and enticing way for our aspiring musicians and ballerinas to learn about music. 

(2) A Whimsical Scene Of Nutcracker With 48 Puzzle Pieces 

This set comes with 48 puzzle pieces - 4 in unique shapes with circle cutouts that give access to the musical buttons on the puzzle frame, and 44 in mainly standard ribbon cut form. The puzzle was illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle, a talented artist who wrote and illustrated a series of children’s books. We were enchanted by the whimsical adventure: Christmas tree and lollipops, nutcracker and the colourful gifts, flute players and the joy of violins. 

(3) Double-Sided Poster With Full Puzzle Image + Information 

The set comes with a double-sided poster with the full puzzle image on one side, and information (about the composer, music, and the gist of the Nutcracker story) on the other side. (4) I love the packaging - the box cover is glittery with golden holographic words and tiny images. There is a thick cardboard insert with ribbon attached to keep puzzle pieces nicely contained within the lid.

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.quarto.com/books/9780711287082/the-story-orchestra-the-nutcracker-musical-puzzle (Website) 

https://www.booktopia.com.au/nutcracker-musical-puzzle-the-story-orchestra--jessica-courtney-tickle/book/9780711287082.html (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Race to the Treasure, By Peaceable Kingdom - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Cooperative board game for young kids 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids around 5 year-old - this is a great first game for young kids to train up cooperation /teamwork 

There is something satisfying about creating paths and watching multiple roads extending longer and branching out to different directions. Peaceable Kingdom has a fun little game called “Race to the Treasure” that combines the magic of path-building with the theme of ogre and treasure. Thank you Leisure Learning for providing this for a review. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Cute Game For Kids With Adorable Themes (Treasure & Ogres)

This is a simple game with easy rules. First, throw the dice and determine the position of the 4 keys and Ogre Snack. Next, players take turn to flip a tile over from the draw pile. The tile would either reveal an ogre, or a section of road (which may comes in the form of a straight road, L-turn or T-intersection). The aim is to form a continuous path (each tile connecting to a road of another tile) to collect 3 keys, and then rush to the treasure before the ogre does (ie before 8 or 9 ogre tiles are being flipped over)! An Ogre Snack gives us the power to remove an ogre tile from the red ogre track (and reduces the speed of the ogre to reach its destination). 

(2) Cooperative Game - Win Or Lose Together 

This is a cooperative game - everyone win or lose together. Players work collaboratively to come up with the best plan to defeat the ogre. This is a great game to learn cooperation - an awesome skill for young kids (as well as for the grown-ups!). 

(3) Set Up The Board Using Grid System 

I also like that the game board uses grid system to mark the locations of the tiles. To set up the game, we throw the two dice (one with letters A-F and one with numbers 1-6) to decide the starting “squares” that the keys and snack would be placed. I get to show the kids how to identify the intersected spots by looking at the horizontal and vertical axes. It was a great way to teach and talk about map-reading using grid. 

(4) Environmental-Friendly Components - A 100% GREEN Game 

This game is also 100% green, made using soy-based inks and FSC paper. I also love the cute artwork, relatively sturdy components, and good quality wooden dice. The durable paper envelope (as opposed to the usual plastic packaging) for storing of components is a nice eco-friendly touch.

This is an awesome game to introduce to young kids, but probably not so much for older kids or seasoned gamers. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.leisurelearning.com.au/race-to-the-treasure (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Kanoodle Flip, By Educational Insights - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Unique brainteaser with flipping mechanism 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   7 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids and adults that love brainteaser/ puzzle challenges 

Clover Street sent me Kanoodle Flip by Educational Insights , and we are in LOVE with the game. It’s compact, travel-easy, clever - the kids and I had hours of fun flipping and turning the blocks to solve the challenges! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Unique Braintaser With Flipping Mechanism & Engaging Challenges 

I love the not-so-commonly seen “flipping” mechanism of this puzzle (I tested a remotely-similar “flipping” puzzle a few years back, but I definitely prefer this Kanoodle Flip version MORE!). The rules are straightforward: Pick a challenge card and matching puzzle piece; set them up by placing the card on the base and close the cover, so that the card is visible through the translucent game board from the top. Now flip the block around until it lands on the finish space marked with a trophy. Each of the challenge card also has a number in a star at the top right corner that represents the “fewest moves possible” to complete the specific challenge. In other words, not only that we have to flip the puzzle block end-over-end to the finish position, we also need to get it done in the fewest moves possible! But there’s more to this game - there are 2 “obstacles” (or “untouchable” spaces) in the challenges where we have to avoid when rolling the blocks around! 

(2) 100 Challenge Cards & 3 Puzzle Blocks - For Different Difficulty Levels 

The set includes 100 challenge cards in progressive difficulty. The 3 blocks come in different colours, shapes, sizes - to be used in different levels of challenges. I love that this engaging game is deceptively simple - the challenges can really turn your brain “topsy turvy” especially the last few hardest ones! The set doesn’t provide any solutions (in other words, no chance of cheating!), but we can usually figure out the solutions eventually. 

(3) Solid & Visually Appealing Components 

I love how solid the components are, and I really love the bright “neon” feel of the blocks that give the set a cool “futuristic”appearance. The game board is smartly-designed with raised hurdles on the two “untouchable” squares, and physical ridges along the grid which make it easy to flip and move the blocks around. 

(4) Compact & Travel-Easy Design 

I love the compact, pocket-sized, and travel-easy design. All the items can be stored securely within the case / game board. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://www.gamesmen.com.au/kanoodle-flip (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Metro X, by Gamewright - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Flip-and-write game 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   8 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Anyone (older kids/ adults) who enjoys strategy games 

 “Flip-and-write game” has just become one of our favourites game genres, and we are so glad to have discovered another fantastic game to add to this category: “Metro X” by Gamewright, kindly gifted by Jedko Games. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) A Super Fun Flip-And-Write Game Full Of Tactical Moves 

This game is simple to learn, but hard to master. Each player gets a dry-erase board that shows a multi-colour map of complex subway lines. Shuffle the 15 transit cards, reveal the top card one at a time. All players simultaneously pick a route on the board with an empty Train Car Window, fill it in with the indicated number or “X” (depending on the types of transit card being revealed), and mark-off a number of stations equal to the number on the card, or stops when you reach a box that is already crossed off. The goal is to cross off as many stations as possible (penalty applies depending on the number of stations being left empty). The routes intersect and cross over each other, and that’s when “Skip” cards come in handy by allowing us to skip over previously crossed off stations along a route. The first player to complete a given route scores the most points; everyone who subsequently completes the same line earn a lower value.

(2) Variety of Transit Cards To Spice Up The Gameplay 

I love that there are a few variety of transit cards to give the game some interesting twists. Apart from the standard “Number” and “Skip” cards, there is also a “Free” card that can be used to mark off any empty station on the board. Transfer cards allow us to earn a score equals to 2X of the number of lines that intersect with the first empty station of a selected route. My personal favourite is the “Re-Shuffle 6” card which really spice up the game by allowing us to reshuffle the whole deck (including cards from the discard pile) and restart the flipping process again. 

(3) Two Different Maps On The Wipeable / Reusable Double-Sided Game Board 

I love that there are two different maps on each board (Metro City or Tube Town) - which adds to the variety and replay-ability. The artwork is clean, and I love that the set also includes 6 dry-erase markers (with a little eraser on the lid of each pen). This game can be played by up to 6 players, and the rule book also includes a “Solo Variant” section. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://sirsquaretoes.com.au/products/metro-x-rail-write-game (Australia) 

https://www.toysandtales.com.au/products/metro-x (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

Wooden Stacking Puzzle - Tower of Pisa, By Funyards Australia - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Wooden stacking puzzle 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   5 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Collectors of wooden / handmade puzzles 

This is a beautiful thing that captures my heart instantly and gives me an inexplicable warm fuzzy feeling. This lovingly-made wooden stacking puzzle is also known as the “Tower of Pisa”, and is available at Funyards Australia if you would love to grab one before it runs out. 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) Unique 3D Wooden Puzzle With 18 Puzzle Pieces 

This 3D packing puzzle features 18 rectangular wooden sticks, a base with a long pole standing vertically in the middle, and a specially-carved top piece that serves as a secure “lid” for the completed structure. The objective of the game is pretty straightforward: simply remove the separable pieces from the base, and reassemble them into a 9-storey tower. The 18 puzzle pieces can be categorised into 4 types: 1 x whole piece, 6 pieces with a single indentation, 7 pieces with double indentations, 4 pieces with three notches (2 on one side and 1 on the reverse side). The key is to observe the pattern of each piece, plan and arrange the sticks by stacking them up - two on each level, in a “criss-cross” manner so that each pieces would fit nicely on top of each other. A simple rule to follow: two “cutout” parts cannot be placed on top of each other, nor 2 “whole” parts without cutouts. This puzzle is fresh, innovative, but definitely “sticky”! 

(2) A Tower of Pisa In Natural Wooden Shades

I am truly enchanted by the beautiful shades of the wooden pieces - some have a natural darker grain, a few with lighter timber colours, and three of them were painted in stunning red to give the puzzle a unique touch. From a quick glance, the final structure resembles the multi-layered architectural appearance of the Tower of Pisa, save that it is not leaning (or rather, it should not be leaning if we have solved the puzzle correctly!). I love how gorgeous the tower is, and how the final structure looks slightly different each time when we reassemble them (depends on the position and orientation of the different coloured sticks). 

(3) Lovingly-Handmade By Artisans In Thailand 

Like the other Funyards Australia products - this brainteaser set is lovingly-handmade by local artisans in Thailand. It is built for long-lasting play, durable and solid, precisely crafted, and makes an artistic display at home. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

Funyards Australia 

Enjoy the video! 

Sailor Knots Kit, By Moulin Roty - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Travel-sized, knots-tying learning kit

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   6 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Kids who are full of curiosity and love learning new skills 

Moulin Roty is one of the most beautiful, heart-meltingly nostalgic, sweetest brands I have ever seen. Each item is an enchanting piece of art that reminds us of the simplicity and innocence of childhood. Today, I’m going to share about the “Sailor Knots Kit”, kindly provided by Moulin Roty . 

Why I love ❤️ this toy: 

(1) Learn 8 Rope-tying Techniques Commonly Used By Sailors 

“Sailor-knots” sounds complex and hard to master. I was naturally curious and eager to explore more about this Moulin Roty’s knots learning set, targeted at kids as young as 6! In this kit, you will find two braided cotton ropes - one in natural white and another in a calming shade of blue. You will also find 4 double-sided illustrated tutorial cards, with 8 rope-tying techniques commonly used by sailors and explorers. I was pleasantly surprised by the design: the illustrations are clearly-marked and easily comprehensible, turning a serious rope-tying lesson into an easy game for kids! I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of figuring out the twists and loops with my 7 year-old, making various mistakes, untangling the knots, and re-discovering the techniques. From the familiar Figure Of Eight Knot (an essential in rock-climbing sessions), Lark’s Head Knot (a classic knot that reminds me of those cute accessories that we used to attach to our old mobile phones), Reef Knot (right over left, left over right), Clove Hitch, to Sheet Bend (a knot commonly-trained in scouting), and many more!

(2) Match-Box Feel Travel Kit With Endless Fun!  

I love the tiny and “match-box” feel of this kit. The set comes in a small box in the size of 9x16 cm. It is travel-easy, doesn’t occupy significant space, and provides hours of engaging and educational fun! 

(3) Great Design With Colour Contrast For Easy Learning 

I also love the clean colour contrast between the two ropes. The clever touch of design makes it possible to distinguish and follow the movement of the separate ropes through the colour distinction. 

(4) Aesthetically Delightful Artwork 

The artwork is a pure beauty! The watercolour illustrations on the packaging is soft and aesthetically delightful, fitting the nautical theme with pictures of lighthouse, sailboat, and two sailor’s ropes. This kit is “adventurous”, vintage-looking, and lovely in so many ways. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://littlesnail.com.au/shop/le-jardin-explorer-sailors-knots-moulin-roty/ (Australia) 

https://www.dragonflytoys.com.au/products/sailor-knots-kit-by-moulin-roty? (Australia) 

https://the3cheekymonkeys.com.au/products/moulin-roty-sailors-knots/ (Australia) 

Enjoy the video! 

The Best Worst Ice Cream, by Exploding Kittens - REVIEW

Nature/ Type:           Very cute game for young kids 

Rating:                      ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Recommended age:   4 year-old ++   

Who would love this: Young kids who love simple & easy games with super cute theme 

Confession time: I love games, but I am terrified of silly aimless games (especially those that the kids love demanding for re-play repeatedly). I was worried that “The Best Worst Ice Cream” game from the Exploding Kittens might fall within that category, but thankfully, this game is silly BUT super fun (even for adults!). Thank you VR Distribution - awesome recommendation! 

Why I love ❤️ this game: 

(1) An Easy Game For Young Kids Full Of Giggling Fun

This is the latest most-in-demand game by my two kids (Fact: I have played this game over 30 times in the last 2 weeks). The game comes with 60 ice-cream scoop cards, 5 cardboard ice-cream figures, and 5 score boards. The goal is to be the first to collect 9 ice cream scoops by “guessing” the right flavour shown on the face of the cards. But rather than guessing randomly, the reverse side of each card gives a clue of 3 flavours, so the probability of getting the correct answer is consistently one-out-of-three. This game is essentially a game of chance, but with a tiny hint of tactical skills (for example, my 7-year-old loves to “strategically” aiming for the flavour that can win him more scoops at once when guessed correctly). The game is easy to learn, elicit loads of giggling, and is a quick game to complete within minutes. 

(2) Separate Instruction - For Grown-Ups & For Kids

I love the two separate instructions - one for the grown-ups and another (interestingly-written one) for the kids. This is a game where both adults and kids can compete evenly, and everyone has an almost equal chance to win regardless of age. 

(3) Delightfully Cute "Yucky" Ice Cream Theme 

The artwork is adorable! I love how they manage to make a range of supposedly disgusting flavours into something so delightfully cute. Gooey eyeballs flavour is blue and has a heart-melting smiley face on it. Earthworms is sandy and hilarious. The “pizza” flavour is made of two bright red pepperoni(?) eyes and a chilli mouth. The green sluggish snail is funky and cute, and the red doggy with mustard sauce is very creative. The ice cream figurines give an awesome 3D touch to the game. 

(4) Great Packaging & Storage Box 

I love the storage box with Velcro fastener on the closing lid, and the pink stripy awning design that reminds me of a classic ice-cream stall. 

# gifted in exchange for review 

Where to buy this: 

https://helloyoungster.com.au/products/the-best-worst-ice-cream (Australia) 

https://www.gamesworld.com.au/product/the-best-worst-ice-cream/ (Australia) 

Enjoy the video!