We all need to relax, unwind and have fun, that includes the children. Which gives us the school holidays. School holidays; half term, Easter, Summer etc. are a fantastic time for children to relax and unwind, but they can also be an opportunity for continued learning and development. The longer the holiday (Summer holiday), the more time they have to forget what they have been learning. Learning loss can be a big problem, especially in maths and reading. One of the best ways to combine fun and education is through play. Playing board games with an educational value is perfect (the kids have fun and don’t even know they are learning something new or honing the skills they already have). These games are not only fun and entertaining, reducing the “I’m bored” element echoing around homes everywhere during every school holidays, but they also offer hidden benefits that can enhance a child’s cognitive, social and emotional skills. Plus they can also help practice things being learned at school, such as phonics, maths, reading and spelling.
Board games are excellent for spending quality family time together. They can also make a fantastic educational tool during the school holidays. Here are some reasons why:
Help Enhance Cognitive Skills
Board games, even ones without an educational theme, are designed to challenge and stimulate the mind while playing and having fun. They can help improve various cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. Educational games that involve maths, language, or strategy can help children develop these skills in an engaging and enjoyable way, supplementing what they are being taught in school. For example, classic games like Scrabble or Bananagrams can help with vocabulary and spelling, while maths-based games such as Mobi or Numba can help with arithmetic skills.
Promote Social Interaction
The playing of board games is a great way for children to spend quality time with family and friends. Not only do they help relieve boredom, but they help with develop important skills such as social interaction, teamwork, and communication. Gathering around the table and playing together without the need for any screens promotes a sense of friendship and closeness. They also help children develop important skills such as turn taking, listening, patience and respecting the opinions of others. They are also an excellent opportunity for family bonding, creating lasting memories and well as chatting and catching up with each other’s day.
Boosts Emotional Development
Board games are more than just moving a playing piece around a board or answering trivia questions. They often require players to be patient, focused, and persistent. Playing games with others can help children manage their emotions and develop resilience. The process of planning, executing strategies, and dealing with unexpected outcomes can improve emotional regulation and help boost self-confidence.
Encouraging Healthy Competition
Engaging in friendly competition through play also helps with teaching children how to handle winning and losing gracefully, helping to instil a sense of sportsmanship and perseverance. Learning to cope with setbacks and celebrating victories are valuable life lessons that can be applied beyond the gaming table.
Screen-Free Entertainment
We all spend far too much time with one screen or another, and we are ALL guilty of it. While screens have their place and can be invaluable educational tools, board games offer a refreshing alternative. They provide screen-free entertainment that can keep children and families engaged for hours. This break from digital devices can contribute to better eye health and overall well-being. And they are so much more sociable and enjoyable.
Encourages Lifelong Learning
Games with a fun educational value can help ignite a passion for learning by making education fun and interactive. They can introduce new topics, stimulate curiosity, and inspire children to explore and learn more about the world around them. Some games, like On the Map, can even help with exam revision. This love for learning can extend beyond the game table and into other areas of their lives.
Adaptability and Variety
There are a wide variety of educational board games available, catering to different age groups and interests, from toddlers to teenagers. Whether your child is interested in science, history, art, or geography, there’s a game that can pique their interest and cater to their educational needs. This adaptability makes it easy to find a game that suits your child’s learning style and preferences.
Conclusion
Educational board games are a fantastic addition to any family’s game collection, even more so during school holidays. They offer a perfect blend of fun and learning, helping children develop essential skills while enjoying their time off from school and are a great way to relax and unwind. With school holidays every 6-8 weeks or so, why not invest in a few educational board games and watch your children thrive and learn, all while having fun during the holidays.