Last Updated: March 26, 2025 | Mama’s Shell
A few days ago, I found myself with a handful of popsicle sticks and a challenge: How could I turn them into something fun and educational for my 21-month-old?
At her age, activities needed to be simple, engaging, and just right for her developing brain. That’s when I came up with an easy DIY solution—two-piece animal puzzles! Since she adores animals, these puzzles kept her entertained while boosting her problem-solving skills.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly activity that promotes fine motor skills and cognitive development, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process!
Plus, you can download a free printable to get started right away!
Materials Needed
- Printed animal cutouts (or any image of your choice)
- Popsicle sticks
- Scotch tape
- Paper cutter or scissors
Step-by-Step Guide
Print and Cut: Print out the pictures you want to use and cut them to size.
Arrange the Popsicle Sticks: Line up popsicle sticks in a row to match the width of your image.
Tape the Sticks Together: Secure the back of the popsicle sticks with scotch tape to keep them in place.
Attach the Image: Place the printed cutout on top and secure it with tape. (Tip: Attaching the cutout after taping the sticks together prevents it from slipping!)
Cut the Puzzle Pieces: Use a paper cutter or scissors to cut between each popsicle stick carefully, creating individual puzzle pieces.
💡 Customization Tip: For younger toddlers, start with 2-piece puzzles. For older toddlers, increase the difficulty by making 4-6 piece puzzles.
👉 Alternative Method: If you want each popsicle stick separate from the start, avoid taping the base together beforehand. Instead of using scotch tape, you can use a glue stick to attach the image directly to each popsicle stick before cutting.
Why This DIY Puzzle is a Must-Try!
- Budget-Friendly: No need to spend on expensive puzzle toys. You can make these at home with materials you already have!
- Quick to Make: It only takes 10 minutes from start to finish.
- Easy to Organise: Store puzzles in a ziplock bag or a small box for easy access.
- Great for Travel: lightweight and perfect for keeping toddlers engaged on flights or at restaurants.
- Reusable & Eco-Friendly: Repurpose the popsicle sticks for more fun activities!
What is My Child Learning?
Vocabulary: Recognizing and understanding different animals in the puzzle pieces.
Fine Motor Skills: Enhancing hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity while manipulating the pieces.
Cognitive Skills: Developing thinking, predicting, and analyzing abilities through matching the puzzle pieces.
Building New Brain Connections: Encouraging neural development through interactive play.
Increasing Focus: Allowing toddlers to engage in self-directed play that fosters concentration and independence.
More DIY Puzzle Ideas
Shape Matching Puzzle: Print different shapes for your child to match.
Bigger Picture Puzzle: Use a full-page image and create a larger puzzle for older toddlers.
📥 Download Your Free Printable JPG Here and PDF Here!
Here in the printable, I have included 12 animal pictures, with six animals per page. You can print them on A4-sized paper.
I designed the layout to maximize space efficiency, ensuring that no area is wasted while fitting as many animals as possible on one page. So, you spend less and get more.
Try this activity and let me know how it goes! Tag me on Instagram @yourhandle if you make these puzzles. Happy crafting! 🎨✨
