Features / 9 May, 2022 / Nanny Anita

Make Your Own Tangram for Hours of Fun with the Kids

Tangram puzzles are thought to have originated in China hundreds of years ago, they are still used today by children to aid creative learning. I will warn you, it can become highly addictive and incredible infuriating when you can’t solve the puzzle.

Using all 7 of the shapes you have to construct the pictures shown. I adapted this busy bag so that it can suit a wide age range; for younger children there are cards that show where the pieces go, meaning they just have to replicate the picture. For slightly older children I drew the outline of the pattern and then filled in just one or 2 pieces. For big children and adults I have stuck with the original concept and all there is is the outline, and you have to figure out where each piece goes. Of course you can use the shapes to make your own geometrical or pictorial shapes.

To make your own tangram busy bag you will need:

• Foam or paper
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Record cards

 Method:

1. Using the picture with measurements in cut out your own shapes, you will need to be very accurate with you own measuring as if they are the wrong sizes the puzzle wont work properly. I used foam as it will last longer, but paper is also okay.
2. I googled Tangram puzzles and then copied the outlines onto record cards.

What this activity can help development of:

• Problem solving
• Creative learning
• Concentration

Best of luck with your puzzles!