My best friend shared something about her toddler. She said, “He won’t sit and learn for school like we did.” He wants engagement, even in math and science. ” Do you also face this issue? If so have you tried including games in the learning process of your little one?
Learning just through theory in school was acceptable once. Even though it was boringly monotonous, learning was a compulsion. Good grades are signs of resourcefulness. But now, kids don’t want that. Kids want to play, learn, and grow. Kids want fun learning as they have more exposure. It has to be pleasant, enjoyable, and also witty. Playing online games is their favorite activity. Children enjoy interactive games like talking pens, recording books, or even building blocks.
Kids are immersive readers. Activity engagement in the game model of learning is immense. Children learn to implement the information, which is just like research. This develops their concepts. Improved analytical thinking makes them better problem solvers. A lot of research has been done on game-based learning. Fun is not far away with fast internet connectivity and low-cost devices.
What kinds of games help in learning?
Interactive games: Kids like devices like the smart pen. They can record and hear their own voices. This acts as a two-way communication. Children like to play online games and connect with other kids. These interactive games are also visually appealing. Giving bonus credits motivates the children.
Feel and touch games: In a toy store, learning with blocks and Legos is common. This kind of learning is fun as they are building something from scratch. When they feel and touch a block, the child is happy because he/she is imagining the sensation of creating something. They can easily learn math from such games. Such games make them clear-thinkers.
Role-playing games: Learning through role-playing makes the child receptive to the other kids’ needs as well. There is an intercommunication and a dependency that creates a sense of responsibility. Team-playing skills are a very important part of learning. Children learn accommodation, competitiveness, and understanding. Introducing such methods in preschools can be beneficial for the children. Both teachers and parents can include these games. Therefore, role playing games develops their emotional intelligence.
Puzzles in games: Children are very intuitive and insightful. A simple block map, or even guessing the correct words, a treasure hunt excites them. In other words, puzzles help to build their logical ability and problem-solving skills.
Teachers are expected to be creative as well. Children want fun while learning. They want to experience learning like how they enjoy playing. Giving live examples, using props while teaching, and learning through games is what is needed. This builds their communication skills, making them comfortable sharing their thoughts. Children also develop a competitive spirit from a young age. Even if they lose a game, they learn not to quit. This is a very crucial life lesson.
Learning through games don’t need formal training. Children are quick learners, and they are usually fearless, unlike adults. In addition, games develop their language skills. Memory is improved, as they are more susceptible to learning something new. They develop stronger connections with their peers. They are able to speak their mind and also understand another child’s view. Many sensory experiences are also developed in children via interactive learning such as games. Above all, all this learning forms an emotional bond!
Here is a post on some practicle ideas on Fun and interactive games for kids by Firstcry- do check them!
Do share your experience on learning through games with your child. Also what games do you suggest?
