Much like physical exercise keeps our bodies fit and healthy, mental exercise keeps our brains healthy. But mental exercises should be done carefully without overexerting the brain.
Brain games activate neuronal muscles thereby increasing brain activity such as in the hippocampus and neocortex which are parts of the brain responsible for memory, language, and other complex functions. When children are exposed to brain games (of their level), they develop quick mental acuity which gets even better as they grow older.
The following are some of the most enjoyable brain games for children:
Block Games
This is the simplest and most basic brain game for kids especially of about 3 years old. The blocks are of different sizes and colours. Block games allow them to learn and recognize colours and shapes while building their creativity and imagination. You can help them learn how to play by constructing patterns and allowing them to observe and copy those patterns. The patterns should begin from a simple, basic form to a more complex form as they grow.
Jigsaw Puzzle
Puzzles are a good way to get your kids engaged. They stimulate brain activity and curiosity. When playing jigsaw puzzles, children concentrate on solving the puzzle by trying to put jigsaw pieces together. There are different types and sizes of jigsaw puzzles from Winnie the Pooh to Sesame Street and even Harry Potter Jigsaws; all of which are available in The Works. The Works Jigsaws range from a beginner level with 12 jigsaw pieces to a professional level with 1000 jigsaw pieces which makes its jigsaw puzzles suitable for children of all age groups.
Hide and Seek
When kids start playing hide and seek from a young age, you will notice a substantial development in their ability to choose good hiding spots from hiding in the open as they usually would when they are very young. Hide and Seek games help children develop investigative and critical thinking skills.
Board Games
This is a perfect way to teach your children to develop patience, tactics and build resilience (especially when they lose). Board games also help you understand your children better. How well they react to pressure and loss and how they can be taught to grow from that. It is a life skill.
Playing Pretend
Children love to act out what they watch or read about. Playing pretend games as well as playing dress-up allow their imagination to soar which gives them the boost to add their little twist and turns to their favourite characters or even imagine characters of their own. This is important in developing their language and social skills as well as their ability to think outside the box.
Do not let your children get bored and remain idle. Always participate in their fun and introduce them to these brain games. Be patient with them and allow them to understand one game before introducing another one. Snack in between games and give them a high five or a treat every time they win or perform brilliantly.
Leave a Reply