I am always impressed at the lessons that are taught and subsequently learned through playing games. Every type of game, from board games and card games and even dice games can teach us if we let them. The range of subjects that are taught are impressive, they challenge the mind and quicken the intellect. Gaming is not only a very fun way to pass the time, but also a great way to learn and to teach new principles to children, freind and family.
What do Children learn from playing games?
Young kids from ages 3-5 learn matching skills, counting, the value of money, sportsmanship and the ability to lose. As parents we teach our children to be their best and in my opinion most people are a little competative. The fun of playing a game is magnified by the opportunity to win the game. Over time young children improve their ability to play and adapt to the game and the situations that are presented. The may knowingly or unknowingly discover a better way to retain information, when to take risks and when to hold back.
I also mentioned that they can learn good sportsmanship and that they can learn that it is okay not to win. I have a two year old and i already have a million hopes and dreams for her. The poor girl hasn’t played in any type of organized event and i have already envisioned the college basketball games and trophy’s that will adorn the walls of our home. We always want the best for our kids and often we associate what is best for our kids with winning. In reality the best for our children is to have happy successful lives that in reality are going to have some hardship, some loss, set back and dissappointment.
Playing board games with our children can allow us to teach them some of the lessons that can frankly take a life time to learn. It is fun to try and to do your best and that is a principle that can be reinforced by playing your favorite card, dice or board game. You won’t win everytime that you play a game, but will you have fun everytime you play? Will you anxiously look forward to the next time you can get together and play? “Absolutely” The point is, winning isn’t everything, in fact winning means very little. We have an opporunity to reinforce this philosophy with our families as we play games together.
What can adolescents learn from playing board games?
For the young adults the lessons get a little more interesting and complex, but the application and the principles remain the same. Their learnings and opportunities will expand from matching colors and shapes to economic impact of decsions, risk aversion, bluffing, bartering and trading. We can continue to reinforce sportsmanship and we can even make suggestions on differing strategies and approaches. For the young adult a new world can be opened to them. Playing a board game with or against their parents, or with their friends levels the playing field, it teaches life lessons and allows them to break free from the traditional molds of society.
