Melissa And Doug Beginner Pattern Blocks By bamabride on Feb 23, 2009 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

This is a brightly-colored, sturdy pattern block set with the basic shapes ... circle, triangle, square, oval, and rectangle. I would give this set to a child between 18 months and 3 years. My 18-month old great nephew just loves it! He tries to match up the shapes and colors and his mother says he is having so much fun with it.

I like how the solid wooden boards are double-sided and VERY sturdy. There are more than enough pieces to go around ... even if a few are lost over the years. I love that this is a set that comes in wooden box that keeps everything tidy.

These patterning blocks can also be used independently of the boards. This enables your child to come up with more challenging creations as she or he develops greater skill in this area.

This set is well made, colorful, easy to manipulate, and every puzzle is different enough to hold a child's interest.

I can't say enough about the educational value and great quality of this set.