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ABOUT THE PUZZLE STAR
Where Thinking Becomes an Adventure
A place where children discover that thinking can be fun, challenges are opportunities to grow, and every new attempt brings them closer to finding their own solutions.
“Let me try one more way.”
The Story Behind The Puzzle Star
OUR BEGINNING
It All Started With a Simple Observation
As a mother of two young daughters, I began noticing something while helping them with their homework. Whenever they encountered a difficult question or a problem they couldn't solve right away, they would often give up quickly or immediately turn to me for help. As I observed other children, I began noticing the same pattern. We have so many wonderful places where children can exercise their bodies. But where can they go to exercise their minds — simply because thinking can be fun?
That question inspired me to create The Puzzle Star. I wanted to build a place where children could enjoy challenging their minds, learn to think independently, and discover the confidence to keep trying even when something feels difficult.
THE INSPIRATION
Inspired by Japan. Created With Purpose.
During my years in Japan, I earned a master's degree in psychology with a focus on Japanese culture. I later spent nearly two years working at a tutoring center, where I had the opportunity to observe and learn about Japanese approaches to puzzles, thinking exercises, and children's education.
Those experiences taught me to appreciate the value of the thinking process itself — not simply finding the correct answer, but exploring possibilities, learning from mistakes, and discovering new ways to solve problems.
That philosophy became an important foundation for The Puzzle Star.
A Message From Our Founder
A Belief at the Heart of Everything We Do
There is one belief that guides the way I envision The Puzzle Star:
“Before children memorize, they need opportunities to think.”
Of course, knowledge and academic learning are important. But I believe children also need time and space to question, explore, experiment, make mistakes, and discover things for themselves.
I want children to leave The Puzzle Star saying:
“That was difficult, but I kept trying — and I figured it out.”
Because one day, the puzzles they face won't be on worksheets or game boards.
They will be real-life challenges that require patience, creativity, courage, and the willingness to try again.
And if The Puzzle Star can help even a little in building that mindset, then I believe we will have created something truly meaningful.
That is my hope for every child who walks through our doors.
With warmth and gratitude,
Mai
Founder, The Puzzle Star