ThinkFun-alysis: Swish Jr!

I love getting new games to try.  A few weeks ago, Think Fun asked if they could send me a new game to test out (for free).  Swish Jr.  And I thought to myself, how would or could they improve on it and make it easier for the younger crew....

They did.  And did it well.

Swish Jr. is the little brother of Swish, the see-through visual perceptual card game.  I love this game on many levels.  It can be easily modified by approach/turn taking and builds on great thinking skills.  Both Mudge and Boog are able to play it, so I was actually suprized about ThinkFun creating a junior version.  But when I received it in the mail and opened the package I saw the key differences.

First, the cards are larger and there are fewer of them.  Second, the shapes "swish" together are no longer balls and hoops; they are now distinctly different shapes and colors like arrows, flowers, leaves and circles.  The reason for that is so the smaller kiddos can more quickly and independently identify whether or not there is a swish-able match.  Before, the balls and hoops version required more attention to detail and visual discrimination skills.  The other thing ThinkFun did was that the shapes and colors  on the cards are always in the same place, so there are predictable swishes.

The game is still very portable and comes with its little carry pack and instructions. It is still quite engaging for kids of all ages.  Both my 7 and 4 year old had no problem diving into the game. 

Overall, if you want to get little ones thinking outside the box, and inside shapes pick up Swish Jr.  It is rated for 5 and up, and the original big brother version is 8 and up.  My boys are typical kiddos (I say this biting my tongue) and they were both able to play the older version.  So look at your kids needs and abilities before purchasing.  Don't forget, this game is fun, competitive, and addictive.  Adults like playing too. So you may just want to suck it up and get both :).

Dreidel: teaching kids about gambling early on

I was cracking up today as I got out our "favorite" dreidel.  Its got a good point, spins great.  And we all agree it is clearly the one we all fight over.

Anyway, the boys and I were allotted our gelt, the Jewish chocolate coins that according to my grandfather he had to go to Israel to get since the company in New York was unable to make them since hurricane Sandy.  Nine each.

Put a coin in the pot.
Spin.

Sweet, I get the Gimmel.  The one that gets the kitty.

Boog gets a Shin, put one in.

Mudge, well, he gets a Nun, do nothing.

A couple of times, we even get some Hey, get half the kitty.

This early childhood gambling experience went on for a half hour while we waited (or shall I say put of lighting the menorah) until sunset.

I apparently have some good skill at the dreidel.  Years of experience beyond them I suppose.  I ended up winning.  I had over 15 coins.  And dammit if i am going to share them!

Chrismakkah is right around the corner, are you prepared?

Trying to figure out what to get the kids on your holiday list besides gift cards and underwear? Here are some ideas:

Free:

•  Lego Club Subscription- specify age for Jr. version
•  A Refrigerator Box- can be turned into absolutely anything
•  Check Craigs Lists for free toys and clothing that may be gently used
•  Hold a toy/clothing swap for New To You excitement
•  Make a superhero cape from an old pillow case or towel, if you are good at sewing

Under $10

• Find some interesting things for all ages at ThinkGeek like zombie jerkey, giant plush microbes, sun art paper  and LED construction bricks
• Visit 5 below, Christmas Tree Shop, and Job Lot.  You can get a ton of stocking stuffers and great gifts for under $5 each
• Thinkfun has a variety of games and puzzles under $10 for the cognitive kiddo
•  Playdoh- enough said

           

Under $20

• KiwiCrate gift/project box.- a single box for Crafty Christmas or Handmade Hannukah is 19.95 (or you can set up a 3 or six month subscription for $60 and up)
• Movie Tickets: go to AAA for a bonus pack discount
• Spot It by Blue Orange is a fast paced  game that can travel just about anywhere           
• Animal Monster hand tattoos can add a laugh to any conversation, as kids and adults make their hands talk like a giraffe

Under $50

• Legos- can’t go wrong
• At UncommonGoods you can find some incredibly unique items including the Gummy Bear Lights and a fire hose belt

And you must be a grandparent:

• Full Year Monthly Subscription to Kiwi Crate might set you back over $200, but each month an overflow of creative juices will occur within the home to which you send it
•  Family Museum/Zoo Subrsciptions- I love the idea of the gift that keeps going all year round. Not only are you supporting a local business but you are encouraging growth and development
• Savings Bonds- for those under two, or that have everything under the sun