The concept is simple: Build and balance the cactus. The results are Mom-approved: We have fun and practice motor and thinking skills at the same time!
My kids and I had never seen Balancing Cactus, an educational wooden toy by Plan Toys, until it showed up at our house for review. Now that we have enjoyed many fun play times with it, I know without a doubt I would buy this game and recommend it to anyone with young children. The game says it is for ages 3 and up, but my 2-year-old has spent hours puzzling over the best way to put pieces onto this cactus. I love seeing his brain at work.
Balancing Cactus is made up of colorful red, green, orange and yellow wooden peg pieces in different sizes and shapes. Players must choose which piece to stick on without toppling the cactus. Whoever puts the last piece on without making it fall, wins the game. Balancing Cactus is recommended for ages 3-12.
In my experience, kids who are around 4-to 5-years-old are old enough to catch on to the “take turns” concept of the game. I have played this game with a play group full of young 5-year-olds, and the boys and girls love it. The first thing they ask when they see me now is, “Did you bring Balancing Cactus?” This toy is a real winner in my book! Balancing Cactus has already won several “Good Toy” awards in different countries.
Older children who play the game can really get into the strategy of placing the right pieces. A game with my 8-year-old takes longer because he takes the time to think about each and every piece before he makes his move.
Balancing Cactus is a game children can enjoy playing at different ages and stages as they grow and develop. Kids who love building will especially enjoy this toy.
PlanToys® are made from non-toxic, natural materials. These toys enable children to play, learn and become closer to nature.
WHERE TO BUY:
Purchase PLAN TOYS online at the Plan Toys webstore.
ANN*H says
What a very interesting toy . Sturdy made with wood and educational too. It not only is something for them to play with they actually have to figure it all out so it fits right without falling down – helps them think and your their imagination. great toy
md kennedy says
We LOVE plan toys and bought several for our 2 year-old grandson for Christmas.
krista grandstaff says
this looks like an AWESOME toy!!! I love buying toys as gifts for my kids, and nieces/nephews that aren’t gender specific….and that they can play “with” not ones that play for them ( tickle me Elmo comes to mind…lol..)
Beth Hargett says
Thanks so much for this review! I am going to see about getting this for my grandson. I hadn’t heard of it before I read your review.