As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for ways to support my children’s learning in fun, engaging ways - especially ones that feel more like play than homework. Whether your child is just starting kindy or has already made the leap to school, it’s clear that the best learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. And that’s exactly why I love the Orchard Toys and jigsaw puzzle range we stock at Toybox Tales.
These clever, colourful games and puzzles aren’t just time-fillers - they’re thoughtfully designed tools that help children reinforce the skills they’re learning in formal settings like kindy and school. From early maths to literacy, problem-solving to social development, these toys quietly do the heavy lifting while your child thinks they’re just having fun.
1. Building Literacy Skills One Game at a Time
Phonics, spelling, and word recognition can be a challenge for many children when they’re first starting school. That’s where games like Match and Spell and Match and Spell: Next Steps come into their own. They break down the building blocks of reading into playful, manageable chunks.
My little one lights up every time she correctly spells a word - and the joy of learning sticks so much better when it’s celebrated like that. The structured, two-level gameplay means we can start with guidance and move towards independence, just like in the classroom.
2. Supporting Maths and Number Confidence
Counting doesn’t have to be confined to workbooks. With the Match and Count Jigsaw Puzzle, my youngest gets to practise number recognition and basic maths in a hands-on way that feels more like an exciting treasure hunt than a lesson. Similarly, Pop to the Shops introduces money, simple transactions, and turn-taking in a way that’s both playful and practical.
These games reinforce classroom concepts while gently boosting confidence - and the best part? I don’t have to be a maths expert to help. The toys do the teaching for me!
3. Encouraging Focus and Problem-Solving with Jigsaws
Puzzles like the Unicorn Friends Jigsaw or Giant Road Jigsaw Puzzle may look whimsical, but they’re quietly helping children develop patience, persistence, and spatial awareness - all essential school-readiness skills. Completing a 50-piece puzzle teaches the kind of focus and determination that serves them well at school and in life.
Even better, jigsaws are something we can do together as a family. It’s a screen-free, calm way to bond and chat while still engaging their little brains.
4. Reinforcing Classroom Routines and Social Play
Board games like Red Dog Blue Dog or Dotty Dinosaurs help children practise taking turns, following instructions, and managing frustration - all key parts of emotional development that kindy and school teachers are also working hard to instil.
Having these games at home creates continuity between school and family life. It means the lessons don’t end at pick-up time - they’re simply wrapped up in laughter and dinosaur stickers.
5. Confidence That Lasts Beyond the Game
What I love most about Orchard Toys is how they’re designed with real educators. There’s purpose behind every piece, yet no pressure on parents to “teach.” It’s about creating moments that spark curiosity, joy, and genuine learning - without anyone feeling overwhelmed.
As a parent, I get peace of mind knowing I’m reinforcing what my child is learning at kindy or school. And my kids? They just think it’s fun.
Final Thoughts: Learning Happens Everywhere
At Toybox Tales, we believe that learning is a journey that happens all day long - at home, at school, and in every moment in between. The Orchard Toys and jigsaw ranges help parents support their children’s development in a way that’s joyful, engaging, and deeply meaningful.
If you’re looking to support your child’s learning at home with toys that teachers would approve of, our curated collection of educational games and puzzles is a wonderful place to start.
Warmly,
Sarah
Owner, Toybox Tales
Sarah Haines is the owner and manager of Toybox Tales, combining over a decade of senior experience in learning and development with a deep passion for purposeful play. Having led national training and development programs across large ASX-listed companies, Sarah brings a strong foundation in how people learn and grow. Her transition into the toy industry was driven by a belief in the power of play to foster creativity, confidence, and connection in children. Today, she’s recognised as a trusted voice in educational toys, sourcing play-based products that support learning in joyful, meaningful ways.