I think it’s safe to say that kids’ puzzles are back with a vengeance and, in my opinion, they could not have made their comeback at a better time. I can’t be the only parent who feels like every family activity involves a screen, can I? From game consoles to streaming platforms to iPad activities, it was starting to feel like good old fashioned offline family time had become a thing of the past! Enter so many new puzzles for families, a traditional activity that has come back like an old friend… and we’re so happy it did.

You may or may not know, but puzzles have been around since the 1700’s making them one of the longest lasting and most beloved activities ever. And since the pandemic, their popularity has only continued to rise. When the first lockdown issues were ordered in 2020, there was a massive surge in demand for kids puzzles. In fact, puzzle manufacturers saw sales go up by 300 to 400%, and, due to pandemic-related production delays, they quickly sold out of popular items!

Personally, puzzles make me think of my grandmother because she is always working on one. Puzzles help you lean in and give people a reason to catch up and chat.

When we were a bit older, there would always be one in the works on her coffee or kitchen table. We would drink hot cocoa and compete to see who got it done the fastest. She taught us to work in clusters and get the border done first. Honestly, I can’t remember a single specific puzzle but I have such strong memories of the time we spent working on them together.

It’s for this reason that puzzles are so special. With other people, they can encourage deep connections and conversations as you work towards a common goal. On your own, they can help you to meditate, unplug, and nourish your brain—not to mention relieve anxiety or stress, too.

Ready to reignite your love for puzzles this holiday season? Here are 10 of the best puzzles for families to enjoy!

Ages 12 months & up Ages 2 & up Ages 5 & up Ages 8 & up to adult