Guidecraft Block Mates
(Guidecraft $25 Score:) Choose from a set of dinosaurs, farm animals or safari animals. These are part puzzle, part construction toy and finally a toy for creative play. Four pieces fit onto five wooden unit blocks (not included in the kit) to build a set of creatures that will fit into block structures. We have to say that we found the pieces fit tightly onto the blocks. Kids without hand power will find them hard to put together, though they will still like playing with them. We do think older pre- schoolers and kindergarteners will learn how to make these pieces into a whole. Although each animal is color coded, kids will also like mixing up the head of a stegosaurus with the back end of the brontosaurus. It’s also nice that there are so many critters in a set, making them a good choice for cooperative play and play dates. One reviewer felt that pre-made animals suited her block builders better than having to assemble them.So, we've had mixed comments on this concept. 4 & up.

Age: Preschool,Early School Years. Award Year: 2009.