These brainteasers typically involve manipulating wooden blocks or tiles marked with dates, days of the week, or months to achieve a specific arrangement. A common example involves setting the current date or arranging the pieces to form a complete and valid calendar representation within a frame or tray.
Such puzzles enhance cognitive skills like problem-solving, logical thinking, and spatial reasoning. Interacting with tangible objects provides a hands-on learning experience, particularly beneficial for children developing fine motor skills and temporal awareness. These puzzles have existed in various forms for centuries, demonstrating a lasting appeal rooted in both entertainment and educational value.