When the Rubik’s cube first came out, I was enthralled like everyone else trying to solve the Rubix cube. I was also very frustrated with it. I think I got it worked out a time or two, but never mastered it like Lars Petrus.
On his site he reveals his method to solving the Rubix cube puzzle. He shows you how to move step-by-step online. He states that he won the 1981 Swedish championship and placed 4th in the 1982 Budapest championship. I’ll take his word for it.
He goes on to say that most people solve the cube layer by layer. While this is the most common approach, it’s not efficient enough to do speed cubing. When he goes for speed, he can solve the puzzle in 60 moves on average. Not too shabby.
So if you’re looking for a brain puzzler for someone this Christmas, try getting them the Rubik’s cube, but bookmark Lars’ site just to be safe.
Be sure to include educational toys and games on the Christmas list for that special child this year. No sense in letting them waste their minds away by playing mind-numbing video games all the time (not that I don’t like video games, but there’s nothing with variety, right?). The type of educational toys and games I like are the ones that combine science with fun. I remember getting a great microscope as a kid, complete with it’s own set of slides for viewing and in a metal case. Puzzles are good too, not so much for their educational values, but for the mental exercises it provides. Now when you’re talking the 3D types of puzzles, you’ve really got a great combination providing hours of fun.
Depending on who you speak to, puzzles for toddlers can be critical to a child’s development. It helps them develop their mental capacity regarding spatial relations. To see an image in one’s mind can be difficult, but oh so important in many ways. That’s why puzzles for toddlers can really help them as they grow older. And this can be your traditional 2D flat cardboard cutout variety or one that has three dimensions, like a Mr. Potato Head. Now that’s a classic game that will provide loads of fun for years to come. Toy companies have to be smart so they’re always offering new innovations in the toy market that cater to parents who are seeking to help educate their child.
