Learn to Write With Unique Kids Games

admin — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 07:59:49 +0000

As a teacher, I know the importance of games for kids. I also know how hard it is to come up with games that kids like to do. However, it can be easier than you think, especially when it comes to writing games. Writing is everywhere and you can do it wherever you go.

Sand and Glitter Games
I don’t know what it is about glitter but it makes sand come to life. Kids of all ages love glitter. In fact, I have a cookie sheet with just a little bit of sand and glitter in it and adults find themselves drawn to it. People can’t help but to doodle in the sand. Make this simple and easy craft and your kids will write all the time. Your only chore will be pulling them away.

You will need:
• 9x12x1/4 cookie sheet
• 1 cup sand
• 1 tablespoon glitter (any color or multi-color)

Mix the sand, glitter in the cookie sheet, and let the kids have at it. Kids can draw their name, pictures, and all kinds of stuff in the sand. Let their imagination run wild!

Freezer Bag and Paint Games
This is ooey gooey fun. Something about squishy paint makes kids go wild. The paint just oozes all over the bag to create some fun filled pictures. Creative kids learn how to manipulate the paint to make their pictures last longer.

You will need:
• Heavy duty freezer bag
• Heavy duty duct tape
• Glue
• Temper Paint

Instructions:
1. Mix the paint and glue to get a thick consistency. You do not want the paint to be runny but more of a honey type texture.
2. Pour the paint into the bag about ¼ full.
3. Squeeze out the air before sealing the bag.
4. Once the bag is closed, tape the edges with the duct tape to prevent accidental leakage.
5. Use your finger to draw in the paint and watch it ooze back into place covering what you just drew.

iPod/iPhone Games
The iPod/iPhone has several apps that allow drawing. All you need to do is go to the App Store and download them. Some of them are free and others cost anywhere from $0.99 to $9.99 depending on what they do.

You will want to monitor the apps you download for your kid based on the age of your child. Some of them are more appropriate for younger kids and some I would not dare give to a child. Use your best judgment as you know your own kids and you know what they would like.

Finding games for your kids is easier than ever. Not only can you find cool stuff to do around your house, you can download games and take them with you on your iPod to go. If only we were so lucky when we were kids.

Parenting 101: How Can Traditional Games Benefit Your Child?

admin — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 21:43:39 +0000

For the past few years, I’ve talked to parents complaining about their kids and their online or computer habits.

“They spend too much time playing online games. No time for homework,” reports a single mom.

“When my child loses a game, he yells at me,” adds a frustrated mother.

“My son forgets to eat meals. He’s so immersed with it that he completely ignores me,” says another.

I feel bad for them but it’s true. Our children are simply bombarded with tons of new online stuffs. I’m not against online games. At least, they have some role in engaging our kids. But most of these online games are designed to entertain and so after a while, some kids get bored. And if done in excess, some even become grouchy.

Meanwhile, traditional games are overlooked if not ignored. When I say traditional games, I’m not just referring to old, classic games. I consider most board, word, or card games as traditional games because they don’t use computer or “hi-tech” gadgets.

Unlike traditional games, today’s online games don’t involve social interaction. If permitted, kids can stay with the computer all day long. Instead of spending time with their parents, siblings, or friends, they spend time with a cold, lifeless machine. And this is where the problem comes in — the lack of connection with a human soul.

How can traditional games help kids?

First, traditional games can help kids learn to acknowledge their emotions, although indirectly. During play, kids learn to deal with frustration after a loss, with excitement after a win, with anger after getting a “bad turn,” with anxiety when pride is on the line.

By playing traditional games, kids also learn how to communicate politely with other players. They show empathy to players who loses, become assertive with those who bend the rules, and control their temper when others become rowdy.

I strongly believe in the educational value of traditional games. Hence about three years ago, I developed a board game — now known as Oikos Game —designed not only to entertain and to create fun but also to provide an educational experience for parents and kids. Learning through play is one of the ways to teach life lessons to kids.

Second, traditional games provide a venue for families to spend time together, to generate lively banter, and to communicate with one another —done in the spirit of fun. The time spent each day to play with kids is a time well-spent. At the end of the day, what kids remember are the happy times spent with their parents and siblings. It won’t matter to them who wins or loses.

They will cherish those moments of togetherness and treasure those periods of laughter. The closeness and warmth among family members will forever be celebrated.

Kids love to connect with their parents. They need to feel secure, to be affirmed, to be listened to. They want frequent hugs, comforting words, and even high fives. If given a choice, most kids will prefer a warm, genuine touch and a caring, healing voice over an online game.

So a daily thirty-minute playtime with kids is an occasion to help families thrive.

Third, traditional games stimulate the brain through logical thinking and strategy. Studies have shown that to keep our brain healthy, we need to frequently stimulate it. Through reading, learning new things, playing word or board games, solving puzzles, or doing physical activities, our brain stays fit.

Like many specialists, I’ve recommended brain-stimulating activities to individuals who suffer from dementia. In my experience, those who often play card or word games and solve puzzles get worse slower than those who don’t. Indeed, our brain also needs “mental aerobics” to keep it sharp and healthy.

In summary, traditional games allow families to have quality time together while improving relationships, creating laughter, keeping the brain healthy, and strengthening the bond that glue the family’s fabric.

By: Michael G. Rayel

Kids Learning Games » Temper

Learn to Write With Unique Kids Games

Parenting 101: How Can Traditional Games Benefit Your Child?