Crafting Puzzles

I started typing with the familiar sounds of my eight-year-old son echoing from the next room. He was in full-blown playful mode, his mom not so gently trying to get him to brush his teeth. For the past months, I’ve cultivated this habit to prepare a weekly math or logic puzzle just for him. Why a puzzle? I remember it as fun when I was a kid but also as a parent it’s a way to cultivate his curiosity and problem solving ability. And why timebox it? Because, frankly, without it, life gets in the way. The endless stream of tasks, responsibilities, and digital distractions swallows up the time. It strikes me as somewhat absurd. We meticulously schedule our workdays, carving out blocks of time for meetings, focused work, and even coffee breaks. We understand the power of constraints in boosting productivity and ensuring tasks get done. Yet, how often do we apply that same discipline to the things that are important for us? How often do we intentionally block out time for playing with our kids, pursuing a creative hobby, or simply being present with loved ones?

“So, the puzzle is ready and it has division, just as you asked. And biscuits and imagination because there was no way in reality I could pack you biscuits to take with you - at least not yet. I hope you enjoy it because that’s the great thing about games in general and intellectual games in particular. I love you, your tired and happy dad”

I signed off, a smile spreading across my face. The puzzle was done, the email sent, a task was completed.