The Learning Resources Let's Tackle Math Patterning and Sequencing Set LER0223 gives preschoolers a head start on their math skills -- and it's fun!

Designed for children ages three trhough seven, the Let's Tackle Math Set has a whopping 252 pieces and comes in a convenient storage container with a carrying handle. The set includes a variety of molded plastic "creatures" in green red, orange, yellow, blue and purple. The colorful shapes include 72 frogs, 72 worms, 108 backyard bugs, a sorting tray and a booklet that includes 48 patterning and sequencing activities.

To use the booklet, simply place it in a specially designed slot at the back of the sorting tray. A flip of the spiral-bound pages will reveal a new sequence or pattern for the child to follow, including a prompt that guides the child to choose the next item in the pattern.

The patterns become progressively difficult, but as a whole, they are challenging without becoming frustrating. We like that the set can be used for counting, sorting and color recognition activities. Plus, the variety of shapes keeps children interested in learning more.

With a price tag of nearly $50, the Let's Tackle Math Set isn't likely to be an impulse purchase, and it certainly doesn't have the flash of many of today's electronic-driven educational toys. Still, it has old-school appeal and prompts a preschool learning process that builds the foundation for future math skills. For our preschool-age testers, we find the Let's Tackle Math Set provides a variety of activities, shapes and colors that work as a whole to keep children engaged.

The Let's Tackle Math Patterning and Sequencing Set is a classroom in a box -- at least when it comes to math skills -- and we give that an A-plus.


Pros: Teaches pre-math skills for preschoolers, easy for preschoolers to use on their own
Cons: Costs more than some educational toys