2023-07-11 19:29:36
Board Games Can Improve Math Skills in Young Children, Study Shows
A recent study conducted by researchers reveals that playing board games can greatly enhance the math and arithmetic abilities of young children. The study analyzed 19 previous studies, which evaluated the impact of 25 different games on learning capabilities. The findings demonstrate that approximately 32 percent of the games led to significant improvement in arithmetic ability among children compared to those who did not play.
The study examined popular board games such as “dominoes,” “chutes and ladders,” and “the Great Race.” To measure the effectiveness of these games, researchers employed various tests commonly used in early education, focusing on factors like arithmetic speed and accuracy.
According to Jaime Andres Baladares Hernandez, the senior author of the study and an assistant professor of education at the Pontifical Catholic University in Chile, children who played around 52 percent of the games demonstrated noticeable improvement in their math skills after engaging with them. Baladares Hernandez also emphasized the potential benefits of introducing board games into schools, suggesting that it could have a profound impact on both educational outcomes and the enjoyment of learning.
Baladares Hernandez further explained, “Playing board games at home facilitates conversations between family members and encourages communication with others.”
Doug Clements, the chair of the Department of Early Childhood Learning at the University of Denver, who was not involved in the study, highlighted the significance of these seemingly inconspicuous aspects of play. He noted that board games expose young children to different representations of numbers. For instance, when a child rolls a dice and gets a six instead of four, they count more points, calculate a higher number, and move further on the game board, which helps them understand the relationship between numbers.
Regarding the use of technology, Baladares Hernandez stated that it is unclear whether traditional board games are superior to online versions, as many classrooms currently utilize digital platforms for gaming. Clements offered a contrary perspective, suggesting that technology can complement and enhance the board gaming experience if utilized carefully.
However, Baladares Hernandez cautioned against excessive use of electronic devices among young children, citing studies that indicate potential harm. He also highlighted that the study did not assess online games, emphasizing the importance of not assuming the same benefits for board games.
Clements emphasized that playing board games effectively to maximize children’s learning potential requires following certain guidelines. He advised parents and educators to choose the appropriate game, using the example of the game “stairs” which relies on colors to guide players in placing their pieces, rather than relying solely on numerical calculations. Additionally, Clements stressed the importance of selecting the appropriate level of difficulty based on the child’s abilities. He encouraged families to progressively challenge children as they grow and learn, emphasizing the value of repeated experiences in promoting intellectual development.]
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