Learning through play: the benefits of educational games

It is well known that play is an important and very useful development tool for children. New studying methods with modern tools such as computers, smartphones and tablets also provide the opportunity for very young children to learn.

Various educational games are now available which allow children to develop their minds quickly and well. To demonstrate the benefits of educational games, this article will answer the most frequently asked questions about the positive effects of these games on your little darlings.

What is an educational game?

Any physical object (talking doll, cubes, or the piano) or technological element (online games) that allows the development of a person’s physical, mental, intellectual and social capacities. This term is much more relevant to children (1-3 years old) who are at an age where they are eager to discover and learn.

A development tool

Multiple experiences clearly demonstrate the many benefits of educational games on children. The games have many positive effects on the development of your toddlers at three levels, depending on certain criteria:

The intellectual development of children comes from the fact that they are beginning to understand the principles of causality. In fact, through their interaction with toys, they observe that certain actions produce very specific result. For example, when they touch their teddy bear, it sings. When they touch their castle, it breaks down. Over time, this understanding will help them solve complex problems. But it will also develop their imagination and creative ability.

The quick development of technical skills is also part of the benefits educational games provide, encouraging your child to discover even more. It is well known that very young children like to taste, touch, smell, hear and especially look at objects that are new to them. This will help your child easily distinguish the textures, colors, tastes and sounds produced by various objects. Their ability to recognize and analyze will become exceptional.

Language development is possible thanks to certain talking dolls, pianos and even tablet games, making it easy for your child to learn to express himself, to ask for things and to sing. It is obvious how important educational games are in their language development.

Some tips for using tablets and protecting your children when they browse the Internet

Kids learning apps are now improved thanks to technology. Unlike physical games, they require the presence of an adult to guide and protect them. Smartphones, tablets and computers used by children are often connected to the Internet. This connection allows them to play online brain games. It is therefore important to supervise them in their learning.

The strong link between play and development gives you the opportunity to teach your children how these devices work. For example, you can teach them how to turn on an educational tablet, how to turn off a computer screen, and much more. This activity will allow them to quickly understand how modern devices work.

Discover the COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © app

The COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © program is an educational game program for children ages 5 to 10.

Thanks to this program, children will be able to develop their ability to concentrate, their attention, their memory and their understanding of things, while enriching their vocabulary.

The COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © program works without Wi-Fi, which is practical for working at home, at school but also on vacation during long journeys.

On some games, the screen splits in two. This allows children to play against each other and create a challenge and social bond. The children exchange while learning and having fun on an adapted tool.

Thus, once certain restrictions are established, your little ones, whatever their age, will be able to enjoy the devices and make the most of their use thanks to the benefits of online educational games.

Moreover, sports are very important for the development of the child. Playing sports allows the child to develop physically and mentally and have fun at the same time!

The Role of Parental Guidance in Educational Gaming

Parental involvement is crucial when it comes to educational games. It enhances the learning experience and ensures that children are using these tools effectively. Here are some ways parents can guide their children:

• Engagement: Play alongside your child to understand the game mechanics and learning outcomes.
• Discussion: Talk about what they learned from the game and how it applies to real-life situations.
• Setting Limits: Establish time limits for game play to ensure a healthy balance between screen time and other activities.
• Choosing Appropriate Games: Select games that are age-appropriate and align with your child’s learning needs.

Benefits of Multiplayer Educational Games

Multiplayer educational games offer unique benefits that enhance learning through social interaction. Here’s how they contribute to a child’s development:

• Collaboration: Players learn to work together towards common goals, fostering teamwork skills.
• Communication: Multiplayer formats encourage children to communicate, improving their verbal and social skills.
• Healthy Competition: Engaging in friendly competition can motivate children to improve their skills and knowledge.
• Problem-Solving: Players often encounter challenges that require critical thinking and strategy to overcome.

Integrating Educational Games with Traditional Learning

Combining educational games with traditional learning methods can create a more holistic approach to education. Here are some strategies for integration:

• Supplemental Learning: Use games as a supplement to reinforce concepts learned in school.
• Homework Assistance: Encourage children to use educational games to help with homework or projects.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Choose games that cover multiple subjects, such as math and science, to promote interdisciplinary learning.
• Interactive Learning Sessions: Organize sessions where children can share their game experiences and what they learned with peers.

The Future of Educational Gaming

The landscape of educational gaming is continuously evolving, driven by advancements in technology and educational research. Here are some trends that are shaping the future:

• Artificial Intelligence: AI is being integrated into games to provide personalized learning experiences tailored to each child’s needs.
• Augmented Reality (AR): AR technology is being utilized to create immersive learning environments that enhance engagement.
• Gamification of Learning: Traditional educational platforms are incorporating game elements to make learning more enjoyable and interactive.
• Data Analytics: Enhanced analytics will allow parents and educators to track progress and adapt learning strategies accordingly.