small toys, big connections

Recently, a parent brought along a little pocket puzzle to a contact visit - one of the Albert Einstein brain teaser sets from Big W.

It turned out to be the perfect portable game. Small enough to tuck into a bag, but big enough to spark laughter, teamwork and connection. Parent and child leaned over it together, turning pieces this way and that, celebrating each small success.

What I loved most was how collaborative it became. No pressure, no need for the “right” words - just a shared focus that made the time feel lighter and more joyful.

When children arrive at contact visits, they often bring something small and special with them. Toys are more than just objects, they’re tools for comfort, play and connection.

Some children carry a toy from home to help them feel safe in a new environment. Others discover new toys at visits, which gives them and their parent something fresh to explore together.

Lately, puzzles have become a favourite. One that stood out is the Professor Puzzle: Albert Einstein’s Pocket Brain Teaser Puzzles from Big W.

They’re small metal puzzles that challenge you to twist, turn and think. They’re also easy to bring along in a bag or pocket - ready for whenever a child or parent wants to focus on something together.

Puzzles have a few special qualities that make them perfect for contact visits:

• shared focus — both parent and child work together on the same challenge

• no right words needed — children who are shy or unsure can join in through action, not conversation

• moments of success — when the puzzle is solved, there’s a shared sense of pride

• portable and calming — they fit in a pocket and can help settle nerves during a visit

  
  

In the contact visit setting, toys like these do more than pass the time. They create bridges. A tricky puzzle becomes a way to laugh together, to problem-solve as a team, and to celebrate small wins.

I remember one little boy who proudly showed his parent how to solve the puzzle first. His grin said everything - “Look what I can do, and now I can share it with you.”

Moments like that stay with children long after the visit ends.