In a world of Sudoku and crossword puzzles, the lowly jigsaw puzzle may seem to be mere child’s play. But a good 500-piece jigsaw puzzle can be mind-bendingly tough, and provide your brain (and your patience) with an extensive workout that enhances several mental functions, including analyzing, sequencing and deducing skills.
Jigsaw puzzling is an activity that adults and kids alike can enjoy, although kids may lose patience during those spans when no easy connections are being made (ok, maybe not just the kids).
Recommendation: set the puzzle up in a space where it can safely stay intact for several weeks, and let everyone fiddle with it at his or her leisure. When that last piece is placed, all can enjoy the thrill of victory.