Review: Big Alphabet Jigsaw by Orchard Toys for supporting learning

‘I want to learn to read now!’

Three-year-old Big Girl figured she’d finished learning to write the other day, and decided reading was next on her list of things to do.

It seems like mini Londoners learn everything about four years earlier than what was common when I was growing up in Norway. I seem to remember running around in the woods collecting sticks and stones as a preschooler, while Big Girl is learning to read and write – and loving it.

With her interest in learning, it’s become important for me to ensure we have the appropriate educational toys at home too, offering additional resources to help her excel.

One of my favourite brands for educational jigsaws and games is Orchard Toys, and I’ve bought several of their products from Ocado, as it’s so easy to add on a useful puzzle for Big Girl when doing the weekly shopping.

When I was offered the Big Alphabet Jigsaw (£9.75) as a sample from Orchard Toys to review I knew this was something that would be spot on for Big Girl. I wrapped it in gift wrap and gave it as a special treat, so she got incredibly excited and took it with her to nursery to show her teacher.

Each piece in the 26-piece jigsaw, which also comes with an alphabet poster, shows a letter and a colourful illustration of something that begins with that letter. When putting it together, it is easy for parents to start a conversation with a little one about the different sounds and the words illustrated in the pictures.

Some of the illustrations include numerous items, such as nine fishes instead of one on the ‘f’ jigsaw piece, meaning the puzzle can also be used to practise counting.

Big Girl is able to put the puzzle together on her own, which I think makes it ideal for her age group, as the sense of achievement should give her a confidence boost.

With bright colours, large pieces, and letters and words to talk about, Big Alphabet Jigsaw from Orchard Toys is a first-rate puzzle for young children who want to learn to read.

Tags: Alphabet, Educational toys, Jigsaw, Learning to read, Ocado, Orchard Toys, Puzzle, Review, Toys