Introduction to Board Games for Homeschooling
If you’re a teacher preparing for a new homeschool program or just an avid homeschool parent, you’ve probably encountered some push back from your child when it comes to education.
It’s something that we all went through.
But homeschooled children have the privilege of thoughtful teachers that can flex the homeschool curriculum to their child needs.
Exploring different creative ways and creating different environments can have enormous benefits for homeschooled children, their mood jumps, they remember more, are more open to new ideas etc.
But how do you create this environment?
Our extensive research shows that board games can be a great way to do so. That’s why we’ve written this blog post to help you engage your homeschooled child differently and create fantastic homeschool curriculum they will love
This guide will help you understand the benefits of using board games in your educational journey and offer practical tips and recommendations.
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Benefits of Using Board Games in Homeschooling
Cognitive and Social Benefits
Board games offer a unique combination of cognitive and social benefits. They challenge children to use critical thinking, strategy, and memory. Games like Chess and Scrabble not only teach logical reasoning and vocabulary skills but also enhance memory and concentration. This will help children remember more and connect topics in classes more effectively.
Child' brains are constantly developing, and exposing them to board games and puzzles at a young age is one of the best things you can do.
Additionally, board games encourage children to interact, communicate, and collaborate with others. This is particularly valuable in a homeschool setting where peer interaction may be less frequent.
Developing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Games often present players with complex scenarios requiring careful analysis and decision-making. For example, in Settlers of Catan, players must strategize on resource management and negotiation, which helps develop problem-solving skills.
These experiences teach children how to think critically and consider the consequences of their actions.
Enhancing Family Bonding and Communication
Playing board games as a family can be a delightful way to spend quality time together. It fosters an environment where open communication and teamwork are key.
Games like Pictionary or Charades can create opportunities for laughter and shared experiences, strengthening family bonds and improving communication skills.
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Choosing the Right Educational Board Games
Factors to Consider (Age, Educational Goals, Interests)
When selecting games for homeschooling, consider the age and developmental stage of your child.
Younger children may enjoy games like Candy Land or Uno, which are simple and easy to understand.
As they grow older, they can transition to more complex games like Ticket to Ride or Pandemic.
Balancing Fun and Educational Value
The best educational games strike a balance between fun and learning. Games that are overly educational can feel like an extension of schoolwork and may not engage your child.
Look for games that naturally integrate educational content with enjoyable gameplay. For instance, Geography Board Game teaches Geography in an easy way, where children learn about continents, world countries, populations, and more. They get to travel the world from the comfort of their home.
Inclusive Games for Different Learning Styles and Abilities
Every child learns differently, and it’s important to choose games that cater to various learning styles.
Visual learners may benefit from games with rich engagement experiences, like Super Skills. Auditory learners might enjoy games that involve listening and speaking, such as Taboo. For children with special needs, consider games that are easily adaptable or have simple rules.
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Board Games by Subject Area
Math
Math-based games can turn numbers and equations into an exciting challenge. Games like Sum Swamp introduce basic arithmetic, while Dragonwood incorporates probability and strategy.
For older students, games like Algebra Game can help demystify algebraic concepts.
Science
Science games offer a hands-on way to explore scientific concepts. Cytosis: A Cell Biology Game lets players build enzymes and hormones, providing a deep dive into cell biology. Evolution explores natural selection and adaptation, making it perfect for discussing biological concepts.
History and Geography
Board games can make history and geography come alive. Timeline helps players place historical events in chronological order, enhancing their understanding of history. Geography Board Game not only teaches geography but also incorporates strategic planning.
Language Arts
Games that focus on language arts can improve vocabulary, spelling, and storytelling skills. Bananagrams and Boggle are great for practicing spelling.
Story Cubes encourages creative storytelling, helping children develop their narrative skills.
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Integrating Board Games into Your Homeschool Curriculum
Planning and Scheduling Game Time
Incorporating board games into your homeschool schedule needs to be both structured and flexible. You might set aside a specific time each week for a “Game Day” or integrate games into daily lessons.
For instance, a history lesson could be followed by a game of Timeline to reinforce the timeline of events.
PT might be followed by a game of Super Skills, to improve motorics, and team-work
Using Games as a Supplement to Traditional Lessons
Board games are excellent supplementary tools. They can reinforce concepts learned in traditional lessons, provide practical applications for theoretical knowledge, and offer a break from standard teaching methods.
For example, after a math lesson, playing a game like Prime Climb can provide a practical, fun way to apply new concepts.
Creating Lesson Plans Around Board Games
You can create entire lesson plans centered around board games. A unit on ecosystems could include playing Ecosystem and then discussing the interdependent relationships among organisms.
This approach will make learning more interactive and memorable.
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Reviews and Recommendations
Top Educational Board Games for Different Age Groups
For younger children (ages 4-7), games like Candy Land, Zingo, and Sum Swamp are excellent choices.
For children aged 8-12, consider Super Skills ,Geography Board Game, and Math for Love Prime Climb. Teens and older children might enjoy more complex games like Pandemic, 7 Wonders, and CodeNames.
Highlighting Award-Winning and Highly-Rated Games
Many educational board games have received recognition for their educational value and gameplay. TheWorldGame has won multiple awards for its educational games.
- Tillywig Awards for Parent’s Favorite Product
- Tillywig Awards for Top Fun
- Creative Child Awards Game of the Year 2020
Conclusion
Board games are a versatile and effective tool for homeschooling.
They provide a unique blend of education and entertainment, making learning enjoyable and memorable. By carefully selecting games that align with your educational goals and your child’s interests, you can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
Whether you’re focusing on specific subjects or looking for ways to enhance family time, educational board games offer countless opportunities for growth and development.
So, gather your family, pick a game, and let the learning and fun begin!