Pocket Sliding Maze — Clear the Path to the Exit

A small handheld board with round pieces that slide along fixed tracks. One piece has to reach the exit, and the others are in its way — so the puzzle is deciding which piece to move first so you do not block yourself into a dead end.

How you play

1. Look at the board and find where the exit is.
2. Work out which pieces stand between your piece and that exit.
3. Move a blocking piece out of the way, checking it does not trap you.
4. Slide your piece forward as the route opens.
5. Keep going until it reaches the exit and comes out.

What it builds

• Planning a sequence, since one move can undo another
• Spatial reasoning inside a small, fixed space
• Recognising a dead end before walking into it
• Patience with a puzzle small enough to carry anywhere

Three ways to play it

• Count your moves and try to solve it in fewer
• Talk the first three moves through before touching anything
• Keep it in a bag for waiting rooms and journeys

The details

• Ages: 3–5 years