Why is it that I forget the joy of putting a puzzle together as a family?
When we go on vacation we tend to slow down the pace quite a bit – I tend to enjoy hunkering down, relaxing and spending time together – with not a lot planned.
Which leaves time for puzzles!
We like to play games at our house and find more time to play them while on vacation, but putting puzzles together generally only happens on vacation; I wonder why?
This past vacation, we put together 3 puzzles between kids, grandparents and cousins. The time we spent gathered around the puzzle, talking, laughing at who couldn’t find a piece, teasing each other when it was right in front of them and anticipating victory as we drew near to the end was great.
How come I don’t continue this at home?
Is it because we are busy?
We have the TV to take our time, school work, computers, errands?
We had nearly all those things on vacation, but there was something different.
Even my oldest was excited and challenged to share in the joy of putting the puzzle together, having conversation with *GASP* her mom – while shifting pieces on the table.
I think there are a few great benefits that come from this type of activity:
Cooperation – you have to do it together, even if someone puts only one piece in it’s place, they have contributed
Commitment – once you have dumped that box of pieces out on the table, you are committed! I am not a quitter, so it will get done!
Connectedness – there is a lot of talk about kids who do well feel connected to their family. This is so true – feeling a part of something bigger than ourselves. With a simple puzzle you can get everyone working on a common goal and it is fun!
Celebration – when that last piece is inserted – the exhilaration is awesome! Everyone is high fiving each other and smiling. How often does that happen with our kids?
So, maybe you can find a puzzle that will fit the level of your family, whether 50 pieces or 1000 and dump that box out. See if anyone takes the bait and then watch what happens.
I bet if you sit down and start doing it you won’t even have to ask someone to join you, it is just an unwritten invitation!
Does your family do puzzles?
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We love puzzles here. It’s been awhile since the older ones did one, maybe I’ll take one out for us to do all together while they are home on March break. thanks!