During our meeting this week, our Maths Ambassadors learnt how to play some new card games. We focused on the card games known as ‘war’ which can be used for ordering, addition and subtraction and multiplication practice.
We know that card games are great for cognitive development and some of the benefits include:
- Critical Thinking: Card games encourage children to think critically as they analyse the game situation, assess their options, and make decisions based on the information available.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Throughout card games, children encounter challenges and obstacles that require problem-solving. They develop the ability to find creative solutions and overcome difficulties.
- Strategic Planning: Card games involve strategic thinking, where children plan their moves to achieve specific goals and anticipate their opponents’ actions.
- Decision-Making Abilities: During card games, children must make choices with potential consequences. They learn to weigh their options, consider possible outcomes, and decide on the best course of action.
- Concentration and Focus: Playing card games demands sustained attention and focus. Children learn to concentrate on the game and avoid distractions, enhancing their ability to stay attentive in various situations.
Playing cards obviously also improves numeracy skills! Through counting cards, matching numbers, and adding or subtracting values, children develop early maths skills in a fun and interactive way. The benefits include:
- Counting and Number Recognition: Card games often involve counting cards. Additionally, they become familiar with number symbols, aiding number recognition.
- Basic Addition and Subtraction: Some card games, especially Uno, require adding or subtracting card values.
- Comparing Numbers: Number cards in card games allow children to compare and identify bigger or smaller numbers, building their understanding of number relationships.
- Mental Math Practice: Calculating scores and keeping track of points during card games encourage mental math skills which benefits their overall math fluency.
Well done girls! I hope you choose to teach these games to your friends and play them with the younger girls during indoor breaks.
