Above & Below Puzzle Kit

Description

The Above & Below Puzzle Kit introduces children to a fascinating concept that goes far beyond typical puzzle play. Created by Crocodile Creek, these four distinctive 48-piece floor puzzles challenge young minds to consider different perspectives literally and figuratively. Each puzzle presents the same environment from two viewpoints—what’s happening above ground and what’s hidden below—creating natural opportunities for rich conversations about the world around us.

The collection includes four themed puzzles: Backyard Discovery (featuring woodland animals and underground habitats), Things That Go (vehicles above in the sky and on the ground), Dinosaur World (ancient creatures and their fossil remains), and Space (celestial bodies and what lies beneath planetary surfaces). When assembled, each puzzle measures approximately 20″ x 27″, providing a substantial visual learning experience that becomes a conversation starter in any learning environment.

Built for Young Learners

These puzzles are thoughtfully designed with large, thick pieces perfect for developing fine motor skills in children ages 4 and up. The durability factor is impressive—Crocodile Creek puzzles are thoroughly tested to meet strict safety standards including CPSIA, ASTM F963, EN71, and Canadian toy regulations. Parents consistently note that the pieces fit together well and withstand multiple assemblies by enthusiastic young learners.

The vibrant, engaging artwork uses bright colors specifically chosen to aid in puzzle mastery while capturing children’s attention for extended learning sessions. As an added bonus for environmentally conscious families, these puzzles are made with soy-based inks, paper from Forest Stewardship Council approved forests, and contain no interior plastic packaging.

How Homeschoolers Can Use This Product

Science & Nature Studies

The Backyard Discovery puzzle becomes a living science lesson. Children can identify over 20 different woodland creatures, discussing which animals burrow underground, which live in trees, and how different creatures adapt to their environments. Use this puzzle as a springboard for nature journals, where children can sketch and research the animals they discover. The cross-section view of underground tunnels naturally leads to discussions about soil layers, root systems, and underground ecosystems.

History & Paleontology

The Dinosaur World puzzle offers a unique timeline perspective that many history curricula miss. Children can explore the concept of deep time by comparing when dinosaurs roamed the earth versus where their fossils rest today. This naturally introduces geological concepts, archaeological methods, and the Biblical timeline discussions that many homeschooling families appreciate. Use the puzzle to launch studies of major dinosaur discoveries, fossil formation, or even creation science perspectives on Earth’s history.

Transportation & Engineering

Things That Go transforms into an engineering and physics lesson. Children identify helicopters, blimps, hot air balloons, airplanes above, while exploring school buses, fire engines, police cars, and tow trucks below. Discuss how different vehicles work, what makes airplanes fly, how emergency services function in communities, or even delve into the physics of flight versus ground transportation.

Astronomy & Earth Science

The Space puzzle bridges earthbound and cosmic perspectives. Children can explore planetary science, discussing what lies beneath the surface of different planets, moon phases, and the relationship between celestial bodies and Earth’s features. This puzzle works beautifully with unit studies on creation, the solar system, or space exploration.

Language Arts Integration

Each puzzle naturally encourages rich vocabulary development and storytelling opportunities. Children can practice descriptive writing by explaining what they observe, create stories about the creatures or vehicles they see, or engage in verbal reasoning as they explain why certain animals live above or below ground. The comparative nature of the puzzles supports lessons on opposites, prepositions (above, below, under, over), and spatial relationships.

Critical Thinking Development

The core educational value lies in teaching children to be inquisitive and observant about perspectives. These puzzles encourage children to see both obvious and subtle details, promoting the kind of analytical thinking that serves students well across all subjects. Homeschooling parents can extend this by asking open-ended questions: “What do you think happens between the above and below scenes?” or “How do the creatures above depend on what’s happening below?”

Multi-Level Learning

The beauty of these puzzles lies in their ability to grow with your child. Younger children (ages 4-6) focus on assembly and basic identification, while older children (ages 7-10) can dive deeper into scientific concepts, creative writing, and research projects inspired by what they discover. Many families report that these puzzles remain engaging as children mature, making them an excellent long-term educational investment.

Character Development

Working with puzzles naturally develops patience, perseverance, and attention to detail—character qualities that many homeschooling families prioritize. The satisfaction of completing these substantial 48-piece puzzles builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Plus, the collaborative nature of floor puzzles encourages siblings to work together, practicing cooperation and communication skills.

Practical Considerations for Homeschool Families

Each puzzle comes in a sturdy storage box, making organization manageable for busy homeschool spaces. The large pieces mean less worry about losing crucial pieces under furniture or accidentally vacuuming up small components. The durability means these puzzles can withstand the repeated use that homeschool materials often receive.

Bottom Line: The Above & Below Puzzle Kit offers homeschooling families a rare combination of entertainment and education that spans multiple subjects and age ranges. These thoughtfully designed puzzles encourage the kind of critical thinking and observation skills that serve students well across all areas of learning. While the initial assembly provides immediate satisfaction, the real educational value unfolds through the countless conversations, lessons, and discoveries these unique perspectives inspire.