Homeschool Games Make Learning Fun

Homeschool games are a great way to build a child's language and math skills without resorting to tedious worksheets and drill. Games also help build strong family relationships, and help children develop sportsmanship, self-discipline and good thinking skills.

When adding games to your home school, look for those that are inexpensive, easy to learn, easy to set up and easily obtainable. You should also buy games that appeal to a wide range of age groups. When you play games as a family, alternate between choosing games for older children and little ones. Adapt the rules to make the game harder or easier so it will be fun for the entire family.

Add variety to your homeschool by buying both cooperative and competitive games. Cooperative games, like puzzles, encourage family members to work as a team to meet a specific goal. Competitive games have a winner and losers. These games help children learn to persevere when they are behind and have fun even if they don't get the outcome they desire.

Don't limit yourself to educational games when choosing homeschool games for your children. Children benefit greatly from traditional games like the following:

• Chess builds mathematical and spacial reasoning skills, and can even improve a student's IQ.
• Trivia questions are great for reviewing factual information. They help children learn to think quickly and more readily recall information.
• Card games are a favorite of both parents and children. They can serve a variety of age levels, and they are inexpensive and easy to find.
• Pen and Paper Games are easy to take on the road for use while riding in the car or waiting in line.
• Board games are every family's favorite. You can purchase used board games at garage sales and thrift stores. Families who are especially crafty can even create their own games.

Make time to play games by scheduling a weekly, family game night on an evening when you have no outside activities. Make special treats, stay up past bedtime, and camp your living room. Homeschool games don't only enhance the learning experience, they create warm experiences that your children will always remember.

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