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Encourage Thinking Skills with Games
There is no doubt about it, using computer games is a great way to encourage children to expand their realm of thinking. Your options for entertaining your child may seem numbered. Many people allow their children to spend quite a bit of time in front of the television. But, what good does that do? If you want them to learn something while they are zoned out, you are completely lost. However, if you flip on the computer and download a great game, you may actually encourage them to learn more and develop good thinking skills as well.
The Importance of Problem-Solving Skills
Thinking is not something that everyone can do well. We are referring here to the thought process that goes along with solving problems. For many children, this is something they struggle with. Often, they rely on their parents to take care of problems for them. If something isn’t right, they just call mom or dad. Even on television, which is full of real-life and imaginary ‘problems’ that need to be solved, there is no encouragement for children to come up with their own solutions. What happens then? They just sit and watch while someone else handles the problem.
But what happens when they are older or in a situation where they have to solve problems on their own? Do they know how to analyze their thoughts and ideas to find the right solution? Many don’t. If you would like your child to be the one who knows how to flip the switch on and solve problems, consider allowing them to sit in front of the computer instead of the television.
Maximizing Computer Time
While too much time in front of the computer isn’t much better, there are ways to make the time spent on the computer beneficial. You need to maximize what they are doing. There are several excellent games designed to stimulate thinking in children. For many, this is the perfect way to encourage children to learn problem-solving skills without them even realizing it! Since games are fun, children are less likely to resist playing them, unlike traditional lesson plans. This approach encourages them to return to the game repeatedly, thus gaining valuable experience and learning in the process.
Choosing the Right Games
What are these games? What options are out there for your child? There are many games available, and while we will only discuss a few here, it is essential to find ones that resonate with your child’s interests. What are their likes and dislikes? Do they enjoy sports, television characters, or perhaps space or underwater adventures? Look for games that will intrigue them while encouraging critical thinking.
Some great options to consider include:
- Big Thinkers Kindergarten: A fun educational game designed for younger children that helps develop problem-solving skills.
- Freddi Fish Adventures: A series of engaging games that combine fun with educational elements.
- Puzzle-related games: For older children, puzzles can be particularly beneficial in enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
The Long-Term Benefits
When you give your child the gift of being a problem solver, they will learn to work through the situations that arise in their lives, big and small, without fear of not knowing how to handle them. This ability will serve them well in the real world. Moreover, you can feel good about all the time they spend in front of the computer (even if it is not the television!).
In conclusion, integrating educational games into your child’s playtime can significantly enhance their thinking skills and prepare them for future challenges. So why not explore the vast array of games available today? They are not just entertaining; they are also invaluable tools for learning and development.