Description
Orchard Toys ‘Tell the time’ is a learn the time lotto type game. Say the time aloud and try to make a match on your playing boards. Children learn and develop skills with analogue and digital times while learning how to take turns and share.
What our testers said
“I go to bed at 7pm.” Boy aged 7
“This will be good to help me tell the time properly.” Girl aged 6
What our experts think
This is a great teaching aid for children who are learning (or struggling with) telling the time. It is presented in a fun and engaging way and the magnets and whiteboard make it an instant hit with children. Our testers showed a much greater understanding of time and it was a product which our parents said they used on numerous occasions. It promotes numeracy and practical skills alongside the school curriculum, as well as building self-confidence in children, especially if it is a concept that they struggle with.
We tested it with a range of ages including a ten year old who was finding it challenging to tell the time – she particularly liked the side were she could pick an activity and then decide on the associated time. This builds context for time-telling in a practical way, and makes it more accessible. As this is a teaching tool, the children needed adult interaction and assistance – they could play with it on their own, but this may detract from the point of it and so it works best with collaborative discussion and learning. We liked the fact it was double sided, however it was a shame that there was not more than one of each number or am/pm sign as this somewhat limited its use.
Skills developed
– Supports mathematical concepts taught in school
– Builds self-confidence
– Helps to consolidate the concept of time