Build Your Own Marble Labyrinth Review
DISCLOSURE -THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Laura B
When ‘What’s Good to Do?’ approached me to test the “Build Your Own Marble Labyrinth—A 153 Piece Slot Together Cardboard Kit,” I was always going to be the first to put my hand up.
Mainly, because I would describe myself as a grandmother who aims to source gifts for our grandchildren that are creative, educational, and if possible don’t involve a screen. And I was delighted to be put forward as the tester of this ‘Build Your Own’ kit, especially with Easter around the corner, knowing full well that this kit would make the perfect gift for our 9-year-old grandson. And, yes, I can confirm that it was a huge hit — but I’d like to add this kit is not just perfect a perfect present for Easter, but it would also make a fabulous gift at any time of the year.
The kit arrived by post, carefully packaged in a large cardboard postage envelope. On opening the parcel, I observed that the kit was simply packaged in a brown cardboard box with a bright colourful printed sleeve without any plastic or cellophane, this was ticking all the boxes for me. At under £23, the kit offers great value for an activity that is not only creative and sustainable, but it also provides, both, a building challenge and ongoing gameplay. Here is a gift, that is eco-friendly, made from sustainable cardboard, and doesn’t require glue or batteries, it is without mess and fuss, which as a grandparent, I applaud!
I’d estimate that the build process took us around 90 minutes, we completed the kit, on a rainy day activity together inside at the kitchen table. We didn’t rush the process and my grandson led the build himself, throughout, which was lovely to observe. The instructions are easy to follow, and all the pieces were easily pressed out, without any ripping or tearing. During the construction, I was only needed for a little bit of guidance, making it a wonderful confidence booster for him. I’d suggest that this kit strikes a great balance, because, whilst it is challenging enough to be engaging, it is not so difficult that it becomes frustrating. I’d say this is a perfect activity to encourage fine motor skills and concentration, at the same time as having fun.
Once built and created to your specifications, the real fun begins. The labyrinth game is quite extraordinary — using the ‘push’ and ‘pull’ tabs to guide the marble, I’d say the activity requires patience, a steady hand and lots of practice, but that’s all part of the appeal. To be honest, and in my opinion, the game became a competition as the grandchildren (and the grownups!) all tried to beat their best time while challenging other family members. The opportunity to rearrange the walls and even the baseboards to create new designs ensures the labyrinth game stays ‘new’ long after that initial build. My grandson loved customising his labyrinth and showing it off to us all.
The ability to switch over to the Marble Frenzy game added even more variety. This is a faster-paced challenge that had us all competing to steer the marbles into the scoring holes while avoiding the traps. Having both the games together in the one box means that this kit gives double the fun and is excellent value.
Another BIG positive for me is that this kit supports STEM (STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning organically. My grandson was unknowingly developing his reasoning, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills, all the while, playing a simple game that he had created himself (and without a screen in sight). It also triggered conversations about physics and design, which is always a win in my book.
All in all, I couldn’t be happier with this kit. It’s fun, educational, eco-friendly, and encourages quality family time. So whether you’re looking for a non-chocolate Easter gift, a birthday present, an activity to take on holiday, or just a rainy day project, the “Build Your Own Marble Labyrinth” is a winner. I’ve already visited their website (www.paperengine.com) and selected other awesome kits from this brand for future gifts.
Rating:
RRP: £22.99
Available to buy from buildyourownkits.com, Amazon and Not on the High Street