3 Stem Board Games to Keep Kids Engaged
In today’s digital age, it can be challenging to find activities that keep kids engaged and away from screens. However, board games are a great way to bring the family together and promote learning at the same time. In this article, we will explore three STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) board games that are not only fun but also educational. These games are perfect for a family board game night or a rainy day activity.
Why STEM Board Games?
STEM education is becoming increasingly important in today’s world. It focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which are essential for success in the 21st century. By incorporating STEM into board games, children can learn and have fun at the same time.
Promotes Family Bonding
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Board games are a great way to bring the family together and spend quality time with each other. By playing STEM board games, parents can engage with their children and help them learn in a fun and interactive way. It also allows for open communication and teamwork, as players work together to solve problems and complete challenges.
Develops Critical Thinking Skills
STEM board games require players to think critically and strategically to solve problems and complete challenges. This helps children develop their problem-solving skills and encourages them to think outside the box. By playing these games, children can learn to approach problems in a logical and systematic way, which is a valuable skill in all aspects of life.
Encourages Learning Through Play
Children learn best through play, and STEM board games provide a fun and interactive way for them to learn. These games incorporate elements of science, technology, engineering, and math, making learning more engaging and enjoyable. By playing these games, children can develop an interest in these subjects and learn important concepts without even realizing it.
3 STEM Board Games to Keep Kids Engaged
1. Catan: Junior
Catan: Junior is a simplified version of the popular board game, Settlers of Catan. It is designed for children ages 6 and up and can be played with 2-4 players. In this game, players take on the role of pirates, building their own pirate hideouts and ships on the island of Catan.
Catan: Junior incorporates elements of strategy, resource management, and trading, making it a great game for developing critical thinking skills. It also introduces children to basic math concepts, such as counting and addition, as they collect resources and trade with other players. With its colorful board and fun pirate theme, Catan: Junior is sure to keep kids engaged and entertained.
2. Robot Turtles
Robot Turtles is a board game designed to teach children the basics of coding. It is suitable for children ages 4 and up and can be played with 2-5 players. In this game, players take on the role of a turtle trying to reach its corresponding jewel on the game board. The twist? Players must use code cards to program their turtle’s movements, making it a fun and interactive way to learn the fundamentals of coding.
Robot Turtles is a great game for developing problem-solving skills and logical thinking. It also introduces children to basic coding concepts, such as sequencing and debugging. With its cute turtle characters and simple gameplay, Robot Turtles is a hit with both kids and parents.
3. Gravity Maze
Gravity Maze is a single-player game that challenges players to build a marble run using logic and spatial reasoning. It is suitable for children ages 8 and up and is a great game for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In this game, players must use the given pieces to create a path for the marble to reach the target tower. With over 60 challenges of varying difficulty, Gravity Maze is a game that will keep kids engaged and challenged for hours.
Gravity Maze also introduces children to basic engineering concepts, such as gravity and structural stability. It is a great game for developing spatial awareness and fine motor skills. With its colorful pieces and challenging puzzles, Gravity Maze is a must-have for any family game night.
Conclusion
STEM board games are a great way to promote learning and keep kids engaged. They offer a fun and interactive way for children to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. By incorporating elements of science, technology, engineering, and math, these games make learning more enjoyable and accessible for children.
So, the next time you’re planning a family game night, consider adding one of these STEM board games to your collection. Not only will you have a great time playing together, but you’ll also be promoting your child’s learning and development.