Puzzle Therapy

Did you know that puzzling can be therapeutic? People of all ages can work on a small puzzle (20-50 pieces) that can be completed in a therapy session, or work on a large jigsaw puzzle (500-2000 pieces) over a longer period of time.

Puzzling encourages:

• Problem solving skills - Analysis, Breaking down a large task into smaller more manageable parts 

• Mindful observation - Taking notice of shape, color, pattern, and how pieces can fit together

• Patience and increased frustration tolerance - Puzzling requires some tenacity and positive self-talk over long periods of time

• Perspective shifting - Puzzling requires a frequent shift between small detailed work to bigger picture thinking, and back again. 

• Opportunity for collaboration - Working on puzzles with a friend or team can exercise effective communication skills, delegation of tasks, and coordination in order to complete the puzzle

• A sense of accomplishment - Leads to increased self-esteem and a willingness to take on challenges

These skills can apply to other types of puzzles including sudoku, word searches, crossword puzzles and more!

Art & Soul Clinic’s Favorite Puzzles: 

Magic Puzzle Company makes 1000-piece puzzles with incredible detail on each piece, funky shaped pieces, and adventure modes.

The Clearly Impossible Puzzle makes a variety of puzzle with see-through pieces for an extra challenge

eeBoo is a woman-owned business that produces puzzles for children of all ages and developmental stages

Find a variety of discounted puzzles at your local thrift store!