Review: Plus-Plus Puzzle by Number Activity Pad, worth £12.99

Review by VIP Club Member Natalie Chan

The Plus-Plus Puzzle by Number Activity Pad is a creative, hands-on toy. It includes 125 puzzle pieces and 12 picture templates, 6 for 2D builds and 6 for 3D, giving kids a fun way to explore basic building techniques.

One of the things I really like is the minimal instruction. It’s super easy to get started, and there are no boundaries. Kids can follow the guided templates or build whatever they imagine. This flexibility encourages creativity without overwhelming them with rules.

Since my little one is still a bit young for it, I tested it out with my 6-year-old niece. She had a great time, especially when she started creating her own designs. It’s a versatile and fun activity that supports imaginative thinking and fine motor skills.

We found some of the 3D guided builds a bit tricky for her age. She got frustrated trying to follow a couple of them and lost interest partway through. In the end, she much preferred freestyling with the pieces. Because of this, I’d say it’s a toy that works best with a bit of co-play, especially for younger children who may need help with the more complex builds or to stay engaged.

The compact size is a huge bonus. It's perfect for travel or bringing along to a restaurant, and makes a great screen-free activity.

Overall, this is a thoughtful and well-designed toy that encourages both structured and creative play. While younger children might benefit from a little support and some patience with the harder templates, it offers a lot of value and fun for kids who love building and inventing.

Available to buy from Amazon or John Lewis