Strong foundations, laid from infancy, are essential to children’s learning success. Game-based learning is one such type of experiential learning that can transform your child’s entire learning experience. Games are much more than just entertainment. They serve as tools that fulfill a basic human desire to express imagination, curiosity, and creativity, which is important in a knowledge-driven world. They support the growth of language, social and cognitive skills and help build the emotional quotient in children.
Educators today emphasize the importance of introducing a wide range of play-based experiences for child learning and development, rather than using structured instruction or formal classroom experiences. This not only makes learning fun, but also improves concentration, helps children retain information, and develops a positive attitude towards learning. (Also read: Fun things to do with kids when you’re feeling burned out: insider tips from the experts )
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Wilona Annunciation, MD, Counseling Psychiatrist and Founder of Catalyst: “Games also act as effective tools to teach children skills or subjects that may not interest them in school or in a formal setting. The introduction of play-based learning offers children the opportunity to experiment and develop new ideas. Children also benefit from playtime by retaining their innate curiosity and never losing the thrill of learning something new. Integrating fun and learning through games works well for kids because it’s a holistic approach to learning where kids also have fun and enjoy learning.” She also suggested five games that you can encourage your child to play to encourage his learning.
1. Monopoly Super E-Banking: Monopoly, the classic board game, is one of the first board games that introduced us to basic financial concepts and terminology while having a great time with family and friends. Learning how to manage money has never seemed so fun and easy. The electronic version of the classic game Monopoly Super E-Banking is a fun way to introduce children to digital money management and technology-based banking. Learning to take responsibility for how you spend your money and save is a lifelong skill.
2. Jenga: This game is a good option to improve hand-eye coordination and develop decision-making skills. The purpose of this game is to teach children the importance of patience and how to deal with stressful and difficult situations.
3. Game of Life: Board games like Game of Life are full of adventure and surprises. The game requires you to make important decisions about college, career choices, some family decisions, and more. The twists and turns of this game put players in situations where they need to interact effectively with others, ask for help when needed, and empathize with them, which helps build emotional intelligence, social skills, and decision-making skills.
4. Connect 4: The game requires children to plan their movement to connect the four discs and pay attention to the opponent’s movement to encourage them to look for opportunities while teaching them to think logically. It also teaches kids to strategize and be proactive as they seek to tactfully connect the four discs.
5. Hungry Hungry Hippos: This game delights children because it is fun and fast. It’s a great way to improve hand-eye coordination. The fast-paced nature of the game results in great laughs as kids learn to be alert, competitive and fast while having fun.
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