It’s no secret that children love to play games. Whether they’re playing tag on the playground or playing video games on their console, games are an integral part of a child’s life. But did you know that playing games can also have surprising benefits for children? From improving social skills to increasing cognitive functioning, here are five benefits of children’s games that you’ll wish you knew sooner.
1. Games Can Improve Social Skills
Children’s games are often played in groups, which makes them an excellent way for children to develop their social skills. Through playing games, children learn how to communicate effectively, work together, and resolve conflicts. They learn how to take turns, share, and negotiate with others, all important skills that will help them in all areas of their lives.
One study found that children who played cooperative games (games where players work together towards a common goal) showed improved cooperation, communication, and empathy. In contrast, children who played competitive games (games where players compete against each other) showed decreased levels of cooperation and social behavior.
So, if you want your child to develop their social skills, encourage them to play cooperative games with other children. Games like «Red Light, Green Light,» «Mother May I,» and «Simon Says» are all great examples of cooperative games.
2. Games Can Increase Cognitive Functioning
Not only are games fun, but they can also be educational. Many children’s games are designed to teach children specific skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. These skills are all important for cognitive functioning, which is why playing games can actually increase a child’s cognitive abilities.
One study found that children who played action-based video games showed improved attention, spatial cognition, and visuomotor control. Other studies have found that children who play strategy-based games show improved problem-solving and executive functioning skills.
So, if you want to give your child’s brain a workout, look for games that challenge their cognitive abilities. Puzzle games like Sudoku and crosswords, strategy games like chess and checkers, and action games like «Mario Kart» and «Minecraft» are all great examples of games that can help improve cognitive functioning.
3. Games Can Reduce Stress
Playing games can be a great way for children to unwind and reduce their stress levels. When children play games, they often become fully immersed in the game, which can help them forget about their worries and problems.
Furthermore, games can help teach children coping skills that they can use when they feel stressed. For example, games that involve deep breathing or meditation can help children learn how to calm themselves down when they feel anxious.
One simple game that can help children reduce stress is «Breathing Buddies.» In this game, children lie down and place a stuffed animal or pillow on their belly. They then take deep breaths, trying to make the stuffed animal or pillow rise and fall with each breath. This game can be a simple and effective way to help children calm down when they’re feeling stressed.
4. Games Can Improve Physical Health
Not all games are played sitting down. Many children’s games involve physical activity, which can actually help improve a child’s physical health.
Physical activity is important for children, as it helps them develop their coordination, balance, and strength. Furthermore, physical activity can help children maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of developing health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
One great example of a physical children’s game is «Capture the Flag.» In this game, children run around outside and try to capture the other team’s flag. This game can be a fun and exciting way to get children moving and improve their physical health.
5. Games Can Teach Life Skills
Many children’s games are designed to teach children important life skills that they’ll need as they grow up. For example, games can teach children how to follow rules, take turns, and be a good sport.
Furthermore, some games can teach children more complex skills, such as financial management and entrepreneurship. For example, the game «Monopoly» teaches children about money management and investing, while the game «The Game of Life» teaches children about different career paths and financial planning.
If you want your child to learn important life skills, look for games that are designed to teach specific skills. Many educational games, such as «Math Blaster» and «Brain Age,» are great examples of games that can help children learn important skills.
Summary
Whether they’re playing tag with their friends or playing video games on their console, children’s games are an important part of childhood. Not only are games fun, but they can also have surprising benefits for children. From improving social skills to teaching important life skills, games can help children develop in many different ways. So, the next time your child wants to play a game, remember that it’s not just a fun activity – it’s also an opportunity for them to learn and grow.