Did you know that playing games with children can help their cognitive and social skills? Experts at the Mayo clinic have done research that confirms this data. Parents that play games with their children are helping them learn valuable skills. These skills will stay with them throughout their lives. Many parents think that it takes a lot of time to play with their children, and they believe that with their busy schedules play time is not possible. This is simply not true. Studies show that playing a game for only 15 minutes is a powerful way to teach the child important skills. Helping children to learn with games is not as time consuming as many may think. Starting out, you may want to begin with a simple game. A simple game will teach basic skills, and game difficulty can be increased as the child matures. This enhances their cognitive skills also. Parents can build their skill level gradually.
Patience is a virtue that many people do not have these days. Playing games with children is one way to teach a child patience. Children learn that they must wait their turn. They also learn that they must wait until the end of the game to find out who the winner will be. Delayed gratification is also taught through this process. This is a character trait that many people in our society lack.
Sharing is another trait that can be taught through game playing. Parents can show kids that the game pieces and board must be used by all players. They learn that it more fun to play the game with other people. Thus, they can see the benefit of sharing a game with others. They learn that most games are no fun alone.
Furthermore, the life lesson of losing is taught through playing games. Helping children learn with games is a powerful way to have fun and spend time with the kids. Important lessons like losing graciously will benefit the child throughout their life. Children can learn that it is appropriate to wish the winner well, and it is important to not gloat over their own success.
During the childhood years, children are developing motor skills and coordination skills. When very young children deal the cards, move game pieces, and assemble the game, they are sharpening their fine motor skills. When they have to think before they make a move, they are learning to coordinate their actions. Coordination and listening skills are also developed through dancing and the Simon Says game. Children learn that they must pay attention in the game to win. They learn to move in a coordinated way. They learn to use their bodies in different situations.
Additionally, educational concepts can be taught through games. Math, reading, science, and almost any other subject can be taught in a game. Helping children to learn with games is essential. Kids learn to enjoy learning when it is put into a fun scenario.
Also, families tend to bond more during game playing. Many families around the world have become disconnected from each other. People are busy, and they seldom take the time to enjoy a fun filled activity. Thus, playing games creates an environment of fun for the family. This time is special, and children learn to look forward to this special time. Important team building skills are learned through this interaction. Children learn to cooperate, and they learn the importance of working together on a team.
In conclusion, fathers have an important role to play in the lives of their children. Something as simple as sharing a little time with them during game playing is huge. It can help them develop important life skills, and it reinforces the father and child relationship. The time you spend with your child is the best investment that you will ever make. The child will reap benefits from this throughout their lives.